I'm really anxious about centipedes and millipedes, especially since I've occasionally discovered small ones in my potted plants, but it hasn't happened often. I just got a new terrarium with a narrow opening, and I need to remove the soil from the plants I'm putting in it. This thought makes me super nervous, especially with my boyfriend away and my landlord out of town. My cat isn't much help either! I'm planning to ask a couple of friends over later to help me out if needed.
6 Answers
I've got about 60 plants and I've never seen a centipede in any of them. I do put most of my plants outside during the summer, and I only get some harmless spiders lurking around, which isn't a big deal. Centipedes aren't usually a problem!
That happened to me once too, but it was only with an overwatered plant in a pot without drainage holes. Keeping your pots properly drained usually helps avoid any creepy crawlies!
I've honestly never found a centipede in my potted plants. They typically don’t thrive in our pots. I think they prefer damp, decaying environments over the usual potting mix we use. You should be fine!
Um, I've never come across one at all! So I think you're good. Just take care while you work on your terrarium.
In my lifetime of caring for potted plants, I've maybe seen 2 or 3 centipedes. So they're not super common, honestly. Just be cautious with watering and you'll likely be okay!
While I know there are a lot of micro-creatures in the soil, I rarely see them. I don't like them either, but they can actually help control pests, so I usually leave them alone when I do spot them. It's good to keep that in mind!
Exactly! They can be beneficial, even if they're a bit creepy. Just keep an eye on the moisture levels in your pots; that helps reduce unwanted guests.