Hey everyone, I’ve noticed a bunch of springtails in my plant soil. I’m curious, are they attracted to light? Planning to leave some lights on to keep them away.
From what I know, they typically avoid light and prefer damp, dark environments. Maybe try reducing the light to see if that helps?
That’s interesting, I would’ve thought light could act as a deterrent. Thanks for the tip!
Actually, they don’t really care about light. In my experience, regulating moisture levels is key to controlling their population.
I’ve done some reading, and it seems they’re not attracted to light. Instead, they’re more driven by the availability of food and moisture.
Gotcha, seems like controlling their environment is the way to go then! Appreciate it, Bill.
While we’re on the subject, anyone know if colored lights have different effects or is it all the same for springtails?
In my experience, springtails are not typically attracted to light. They prefer moist and damp environments.
That’s right. Springtails thrive in high-humidity areas.
Interesting. I’ve seen them around my grow lights in the basement though. Maybe it’s the warmth they are after, not the light itself?
What you mentioned is also a possible scenario, but I think the attraction to light is not as strong as their need for a suitable habitat.
While they may move toward light, this is not their primary driving force.
I think the question should really be about whether or not light deters springtails, rather than attracts them. Any thoughts?
True, but I’ve noticed fewer springtails on the surface on bright sunny days compared to overcast days. They might not like direct sunlight.
Light sources that emit heat might attract them indirectly because of the warmth, but I wouldn’t say the light itself is a big factor.
Springtails are indeed attracted to light and moisture, which explains why they might congregate near windows or lamps at night.
I’ve seen them swarm under grow lights in my greenhouse, they’re not chasing light exactly, but warmth and humidity around the light seem to do the trick.
@BugWatcherBill You’re spot on, moisture is the key driver. Cleaning up damp soil and reducing plant overwatering helped me reduce springtail sightings dramatically.
I had a batch jogging along a bedroom window at dusk, turned out the condensation sitting there overnight was the real magnet, not just the light.
UC notes mention they can sneak in through fine cracks near vents and windows, if they’re showing up around your lighting, check seals and screens too.
@EarthyErica Totally Agree. I overwatered a fern and ended up with springtail chaos in my sink. Drying out the soil and stepping back on watering fixed that in days.