Majesty Palms: Strange Pests, and Repotting Question

Question

Hello All! I have researched online for over 2 weeks now, and still need help with my majesty palm. I bought two 5′ high Majesty Palms from IKEA about a month ago. They look beautiful, and there is plenty of new growth. They do not appear to have spider mites or scales or aphids. However, every time I water them, many tiny whitish worm/centipede-like bugs come out of the bottom of the pot. These wormy bugs do not seem to match the description of any common houseplant pests that I have read about. Can anyone help me to identify them and give me some advice on how to get rid of them? I have tried immersing the bottom of the plant in water for 1 hour, as many sites recommended. I sprayed the plant with soapy water. I have also just bought organic neem oil, but am not sure if this will work, and I do not want to stress this plant any further. Also, would it be better to repot the plant after I get rid of these pests or before? Thank you in advance!

Answer 1

I would suggest you contact your local extension office (found in the gov’t section of your phone book) I too have researched this problem and can find nothing in the way of pests of palm trees that matches your description. The extension agent should be able to get a better idea of what your dealing with and how to treat it.