PlantPal

Tiny jumpers on the soil

If they jump when disturbed and the plant looks healthy, they may be harmless springtails.

A springtail in soil, shown enlarged.
A springtail in soil, shown enlarged. Photo: Alandmanson · CC BY 4.0 · Resized and converted for display.

What to check first

Look for tiny pale or gray creatures that spring away when you water. They usually feed on decaying material in damp mix. Small dark flies that stay airborne are more likely to be gnats.

What to do now

If the plant looks healthy, leave them alone. To reduce numbers, clear dead debris and let the surface dry a little more between waterings, within the plant's needs.

What to watch next

Check whether fewer jump after the next few waterings. If the plant also wilts in wet mix, check drainage and roots rather than treating the springtails.

Sources