what is infesting my aloe vera plant?
By Ises
United Kingdom 
...I have a beautiful Aloe Vera plant at home that ive just discovered is infested with a very small, lice looking bug that seems to blend in the soil until disturbed, It then seems to change its colour to a white or pale brown, revealing its self as it scatters around, and there are dozens, maybe hundreds of these.There are also a few tiny, black flies......Ive tried a treatment called Provado ultimate bug killer without any effect at all and I dont want to use stronger chemicals without knowing if any damage will be done. I would really appreciate it if you could give me some guidance on the matter and maybe a solution, I thank you for your time.....Regards Ises.
17 Jul, 2009
Answers
I would go with that too. Water well when you do water, but let it dry off quite a bit between waterings. This will suit the plant fine but not the springtails.
18 Jul, 2009
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do they 'skip'/jump? these sound like springtails. or are they baby woodlice? The flies might the ones that live in damp compost. they lay eggs anf the tiny larva eat roots.
I 'd be tempted to let the compost get very dry and as aloe is a succulent the plant will manage with the dryness. Or you could wash all compost off and replant in fresh stuff, but keep on the dry side.
oh and welcome to GoY too.
17 Jul, 2009