Small jumping insects in the soil of your houseplants are springtails. They are especially noticeable after you have watered. Although springtails can be very common, they are fortunately not damaging to plants.

These insects [1] feed on decaying plant material and fungi and are very abundant outdoors. When you find springtails inside, it is usually in damp, overwatered soil or soil with lots of peat or other organic matter in it.

Springtails may be annoying but they are not harmful to your plants. However, getting rid of them is easier said than done. Your best bet is to try to dry out the soil more between waterings. When watering houseplants always water thoroughly, then spill out the excess moisture that remains in the saucer or tray [2] after a few minutes.

A good rule of thumb is to never water if the surface still feels moist to the touch. The soil should be dry between 1/4 to 1/2 inch below the soil surface. Poke your finger in to the soil to see how dry it is, then water just before the leaves begin to wilt.

If springtails persist, continue with your reduced watering schedule; springtails numbers should continue to decline and eventually disappear.