Soil Bugs / Mites??

Watch Reply
More
Mark unread Print Skip to new
Heavinscent South West, LA(Zone 9a) Feb 26, 2006

I was watering a potted plant today and I thought I saw something move, so I got out the spy glass and saw the soil moving with tiny bugs. They have no wings and look like some kind of mite. Is it a foe? Treatment?
Thanks
Caren

Post #2073596
Quote
PanamonCreel Celaya, Mexico(Zone 10a) Feb 28, 2006

Any more details? Do those bugs jump when you water?

Post #2077230
Quote
Heavinscent South West, LA(Zone 9a) Feb 28, 2006

No they just crawl around. anmlost look white in color. I cant see them at all till I water. Does that help any?

Post #2077298
Quote
PanamonCreel Celaya, Mexico(Zone 10a) Feb 28, 2006

Most likely your soil has a fair amount of organic material that is attracting these critters. Most of them are harmless and don't actually attack any living plant material. They come to the surface when you water to avoid drowning and they'll go "underground" again once the water has been soaked up.

Post #2077500
Quote
Heavinscent South West, LA(Zone 9a) Feb 28, 2006

Thank you!

Post #2077513
Quote
critterologist Frederick, MD(Zone 6b) Feb 28, 2006

Soil mealybugs, if that's what these are, are considered "foe" by african violet enthusiasts. A sprinkle of diatomaceous earth on the surface or mixed into your potting mix can deter soft-bodied pests, including fungus gnat larvae. You can also add Murphy's Oil Soap and/or Lysol when you water to kill things in the soil... 1 capful per gallon of water. You might consider pulling your plant out of the pot to see if these bugs seem to be causing root damage before you declare all out warfare.

I'm much more "live & let live" when it comes to random bugs on outdoor plants, but I have a low tolerance for them in potted indoor plants!

Post #2077573
Quote
Heavinscent South West, LA(Zone 9a) Feb 28, 2006

Thank you Critter. I too share your view.

Post #2077952
Quote

Post a Reply to this Thread

Please or sign up to post.
Back to Forum Homepage

More Garden Pests and Diseases Threads

Go to all Garden Pests and Diseases threads
BACK TO TOP