Aphids

• Aphids are small insects that feed on plant leaves, stems and other soft areas. According to the University of Kentucky College of Agriculture, aphids cluster on plant tissue, which can results in stunted growth or reduced growth. Aphid eggs, found in contaminated soil potting mix, can result in an aphid infection in both indoor and outdoor plants grown with the soil.
  
  

Springtail Earwigs

• Springtails are small insects that feed on organic matter in soil, according to the Colorado State University Extension. Although they do not cause significant damage to plants, they can be a nuisance to growers.
  
  

Control

• Systemic insecticides, in the form of granular or spikes, are an effective method of control for soil-borne insects, including aphid eggs, according to the Colorado State University Extension. The University of Maryland Extension states that mature aphid control consists of spraying water on aphid colonies to dislodge them. Control for springtail populations consists of limiting water levels in soil potting mix, according to the Colorado State University Extension.