Black Mites with White Spots in Herb Garden: Wait and Monitor

Small jumping black mites with white spots in a new herb garden (coconut fiber soil) may be springtails or harmless soil mites. Don't purge the garden—monitor for actual plant damage first.

If Treatment Needed

1. Insecticidal soap: First choice; safe for edibles.
2. Pyrethrum or rotenone: If soap fails. Plant-derived, no harmful residues. Spray when insects are active (daytime).

All available at garden centers or online (Planet Natural, Gardens Alive). Most soil mites are beneficial decomposers—confirm damage before acting.