This morning I got up to check the plants and noticed bot...
This morning I got up to check the plants and noticed both have either soil mites or springtails. I’m still trying to put more spring in my nerve plant, now I’ve got the kind with legs. I used my handy dandy google search bar and it said they’re harmless and actually beneficial is this true? I only saw one in each pot just looking at the top layer of soil. Do they tend to get out and invade the home? If they’ll stay put I won’t evict them just yet #SoilMites #springtails #help
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Best Answer
@WhimsyWisteria While not harmful to humans or pets they can become annoying. Reduce Moisture:
The most effective way to control springtails is to reduce moisture in the soil by allowing it to dry out between waterings.
Proper Watering Practices:
Ensure you're not overwatering your houseplants, as this can create an ideal environment for springtails to thrive.
Vacuuming:
You can easily vacuum up any springtails you see on surfaces or in the soil.
Insecticides:
In more severe cases, you can use insecticidal sprays specifically designed for houseplants, following the label instructions carefully. Hope this helps!
The most effective way to control springtails is to reduce moisture in the soil by allowing it to dry out between waterings.
Proper Watering Practices:
Ensure you're not overwatering your houseplants, as this can create an ideal environment for springtails to thrive.
Vacuuming:
You can easily vacuum up any springtails you see on surfaces or in the soil.
Insecticides:
In more severe cases, you can use insecticidal sprays specifically designed for houseplants, following the label instructions carefully. Hope this helps!
@WhimsyWisteria I found a very interesting website which has all the info about Springtails you ever wanted to know. But it’s true they are harmless! https://ipm.ucanr.edu/PMG/PESTNOTES/pn74136.html#:~:text=Springtails%20(order%20Collembola)%20are%20very,in%20the%20soil%20of%20houseplants.
@Ms.Persnickety not certain what to do now.. they were probably in the soil I used to repot my plants a little over a week ago. I used miracle gro cactus palm and citrus.. what happens when they start multiplying?
@Ms.Persnickety Yes, thank you! I’d love for them to stay since apparently they help with root health but I’m in an apartment I can’t be the one to introduce another infestation and I don’t want to get rid of my plants 😭
@WhimsyWisteria I don’t really think you have anything to worry about, unless your apartment is continuously at a80% humidity level. And with AC that can easily be controlled. This is the environment they prefer. Springtails thrive in excessively moist environments. They require a high humidity level, often above 80%, and prefer a substrate that is moist but not waterlogged. They are commonly found in leaf litter, under bark, in damp soil, and other locations with high moisture and decaying organic matter. If you are really concerned I would recommend getting a Humidity meter , the one pictured measures both humidity and temperature. Is relatively inexpensive, under $10.00, solar powered (it won’t need batteries). And you can check the humidity level in your apartment. I really think you’ll be alright. Good luck 👍
@WhimsyWisteria I was told by my plant store to stick half a strawberry in the plant and they’ll gravitate to it; and then you can lift it out and dispose of them. Haven’t tried it!