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Spring-Tails

Very minute (1/16-3/16"), generally whitish in color, wingless insects. Can thrust themselves an inch or more in the air with the aid of a forked appendate (tail-like structure). Most often seen after watering which forces them to the surface. Feed mainly on decaying organic matter, but some species may feed on root systems to cause willting.

Control

Drench soil with malathion.** On sensitive plants, water soil to bring insects to surface and then use a pyrethrin spray.

**Do not use on Boston, Maidenhair and Pterls ferns, some species of Crassula, Gloxinia, Saintpulla (African violets), and begonias.