When I see a plant that catches my eye, I just can't help it! This is my first Croton, and I've read quite a few threads so far and looks like this is one plant to mist due to spider mite problems. I'm curious what anyone else does with theirs, for preventive care. I have my way of tending the plants each day, but it's always nice to learn tips from previous/current owners.

Very nice Alyssa! Croton (Codiaeum variegatum 'Petra') is a common landscape plant here in Florida. I've grown it as a container plant over the years but mine always stay outside year round so I can't offer advice on misting or indoor care. I think we have a few members who grow Croton as indoor plants so hopefully someone will be along with suggestions for you.

Guess what happened.....found symphyla in the soil! Sorry- back to the shop. Those are near impossible to get rid of apparently. I haven't had good luck regarding bugs lately.

Alyssa - You may be over reacting to the soil bugs. They are not generally harmful to the plant. As long as they stay in the soil, they are harmless. Potted plants grown in sterile potting soil (actually peat-based, soil-less potting mixes) do not have soil pest problems. The presence of critters is often an indication that the nursery grower is not using quality techniques.

Will- you're correct. I think the bigger concern for me was the fact that it was from a different grower that I was unsure about quality already. Normally I do try to resolve the problem myself- this might be the first plant I've ever returned actually.

Have you ever dealt with a plant that had symphyla infestation? I read online it was very difficult because they burrow deep beneath the crown of the plant. Just wondering if it's as bad as some say it is...

Alyssa - I applaud you for returning the plant. Retailers need to know they should not be selling poor quality plants.

I have occasionally dealt with centipede problems. I'm not sure I could identify a particular centipede or millipede species. Typically, these critters appear only in plants grown in garden soil rather than sterile, soil-less, peat-based potting mixes. Needless to say, I never purchase plants that are grown in garden soil mixes.

I'm sure there are systemic pesticides that can be used as soil drenches to eradicate these critters, but I never use toxic pesticides. That means I am very careful not to introduce plant pests in the first place. Prevention is the best remedy!

Does the information you have found about symphyla refer specifically to their consequences with indoor plants or only outdoors? What applies outdoors often does not apply indoors. Many insect species that exist outdoors cannot live for long indoors. And that is a good thing!