Introduction

Millipedes are small arthropods that often take refuge in potted plants. While they don't harm the plants, they can become a nuisance if they start to populate excessively. This article will outline some methods to get millipedes out of potted plants.

Clean the Pot

The first step in removing millipedes from a potted plant is to remove the plant from the pot and clean it thoroughly. This means removing any old soil and replacing it with fresh soil. It also means cleaning the pot with warm soapy water to ensure that any millipede eggs or remnants are removed.

Natural Predators

Another method to get rid of millipedes is to introduce natural predators. Some common predators include centipedes, ground beetles, and spiders. You can let these natural predators loose in the pot or purchase them from a biological control company.

Hand Picking

If you have a small infestation of millipedes, you can simply handpick them out of the pot. This method works best at night when the millipedes are more active. Place a damp cloth over the soil to ensure that the millipedes are easier to spot and remove.

Traps

Traps are another effective method to get millipedes out of potted plants. You can use shallow dishes of beer to attract the millipedes. The beer will drown the millipedes, and you can dispose of them in the morning. You can also use sticky traps, which can be purchased at a garden center or made from cardboard and honey.

Diatomaceous Earth

Diatomaceous earth is a natural substance that can kill millipedes. It is made from the fossilized remains of diatoms and can be purchased at most garden centers. Sprinkle the diatomaceous earth over the soil in the pot and water as normal. The diatomaceous earth will kill any millipede that comes in contact with it.

Conclusion

Millipedes can be a nuisance in potted plants, and it's important to remove them to prevent further infestation. Natural predators or traps can be employed for small infestations, while diatomaceous earth can be used for larger ones. Regular cleaning and maintenance of the pot can also prevent millipede infestations from occurring in the first place.