Preventing Pests in Indoor Herbs: Sterile Soil Is Key

Recurring spider mites, leaf miners, and fungus gnats in indoor herbs usually come from bagged potting soil (especially Miracle‑Gro) that harbors eggs and larvae.

Clean Start Protocol

1. Discard all infested plants and soil.
2. Use a sterile soilless mix: 4–5 parts peat moss to 1 part perlite.
3. Start seeds in this mix; keep seedlings separate from any old plants.
4. Water by weight to avoid constant surface moisture.

Pro‑Mix is a reliable commercial sterile option if available.