ID tiny black insects (a lot) in soil - JRP

[LeoMame]

Hello everyone, I noticed lots of tiny insects in my red pine's pot. Curiously there are no flies around, so that might rule out fungus gnat? They move fast but not as fast as the red mites, and they are only in the soil. In a massive number.

Sorry for the terrible quality of the photo.

Any ideas? Should I get rid of them in some way?

Thanks as usual!

Leo

 

[Flowerhouse]

Springtails. They don't harm your plants.

 

[hinmo24t]

Springtails. They don't harm your plants.

yup. got them in mine as well. thrips are no good and look similar (?) but the springtails just eat
decomposing wood or something (?)

 

[LeoMame]

When I google 'thrips' I can see they mostly live on the green parts of the plant (leaves, stems), so I'm quite sure I'm dealing with springtails. Thanks @Flowerhouse !

I can see why they chose to live there, the soil is poor and compact and I use organic fert, so it's def a feast of organic matter. Repotting is due next spring.

 

[just.wing.it]

I have them too....the seem to like the damp areas, too wet or too dry and they'll move out.
With that said, I think they're a good sign....and harmless.

 

[Wires_Guy_wires]

yup. got them in mine as well. thrips are no good and look similar (?) but the springtails just eat
decomposing wood or something (?)

Thrips usually don't like conifers, thankfully.
They leave typical silvery spots on houseplants and just about everything else though!
Thrips are usually white, yellow or light brown.