Key Code: EEE1

Roots are rotted and mushy. Small, maggot-like worms, translucent/ white bodies without black head capsules are evident on dead/ decaying tissue and algae. Minimal feeding evident on live tissue. The insects are scavengers and may be controlled with insecticidal drenches. This may indicate Oligochaets, or shore fly larvae.

Key Code: EEE2

Roots are rotted and mushy. Small, clear to whitish worms with black head capsules are evident on and around damaged root system. The insect may be difficult to see without a hand lens. This may indicate fungus gnat larvae.

Key Code: eee1

Fungus gnat larvae thrive in wet media rich in organic matter content. The pest feeds on root and stem structures of the plant, resulting in loss of function by the structures and stress on the poinsettia. Chemical intervention is suggested (see Federal Insect and Mite Control Chart) as is modification of irrigation practices.

Key Code: eee2

Fungus gnat larvae have been associated with the introduction of various fungal pathogens to the poinsettia, either by direct vectoring or by physical injury of the plant allowing entry by the pathogen. Water mold fungi, such as Pythium and stem rot pathogens such as Rhizoctonia are the organisms commonly associated with this problem. Once some level of fungus gnat control has been achieved, use of an appropriate fungicide is suggested to minimize disease pressure.

For specific recommendations see the Federal Disease Control Chart.