I have encountered milliped in houseplants before , and while they are in the main not harmful , their presence can become problematic if their population originate . Millipedes are sleep together to feed on decaying works issue , such as stagnant leafage and root , which can in reality be beneficial for the overall health of the plant . However , if their population becomes too magnanimous , they may startle make damage to the roots of the plant .
When millipedes prey on the roots , they can interrupt the plant ’s ability to take up water and nutrients , chair to stunted growth and yellow leaves . In dangerous case , this can even lead in the death of the flora . to boot , millipede can leave behind their dung , which can create a mussy and unsightly appearing in your houseplant .
If you have noticed millipedes in your houseplants , it is important to take action to prevent their population from grow and causing further scathe . Here are several way to get rid of milliped in houseplant :
1 . Remove decaying plant matter : Millipedes are attracted to decay plant cloth , so removing any dead leave or roots from your houseplants can help deter them . Regularly pick up fall leaf and bring down off any beat or decaying plant part .
2 . amend drainage : millipede thrive in moist environments , so improving the drain in your houseplant pots can make the surroundings less favourable for them . Ensure that your pots have proper drainage hole and use well - draining potting soil .
3 . align watering practices : Overwatering can create a moist environment that is attractive to milliped . irrigate your houseplants only when the top column inch of dirt feels teetotal to the touch . forfend leaving stand water in the saucers beneath the pot .
4 . utilize natural repellents : There are several instinctive repellents that can help deter millipedes from your houseplants . For instance , splosh diatomaceous earth around the foundation of the industrial plant can make a roadblock that milliped will invalidate crossing . you may also try range crushed garlic cloves or onion slicing near your plant , as millipedes dislike the firm odor .
5 . supervise and remove millipedes : Regularly check your houseplants for millipede and manually murder any you happen . you may practice a couple of tweezers or simply pick them up and place them outside . Be certain to wear upon gloves , as some milliped can release a defensive fluid that may stimulate cutis irritation .
6 . Consider instinctive predators : Some natural predators , such as solid ground beetles and centipedes , provender on millepede . introduce these predator into your houseplant area can avail keep milliped populations in check . However , be cautious when introducing vulture , as they may also prey on other good insect .
It is important to observe that while these methods can facilitate control millepede population , they may not wholly eliminate them . If you continue to have issues with milliped damaging your houseplant , you may ask to consider more aggressive measures , such as using chemical insecticides . However , I always promote essay rude and environmentally - friendly methods first before resorting to chemicals .
While milliped are generally not harmful to houseplants , their universe can become baffling if left unchecked . They tip on decay plant matter and can damage the roots of plants if their numbers increase . Taking steps to polish off decaying plant material , improve drain , adjust watering practices , use natural repellent , monitor and remove millipede , and moot natural predators can help ascertain their population and protect your houseplants .
Caroline Bates
