House plant mystery - Ask Extension
What is this granular material that I keep finding in the drainage saucer of this house plant? The plant is a Christmas cactus and doesn't seem to be ...
Knowledgebase
House plant mystery #780656
Asked January 23, 2022, 3:49 AM EST
What is this granular material that I keep finding in the drainage saucer of this house plant? The plant is a Christmas cactus and doesn't seem to be affected by whatever is going on in the soil.
Baltimore County Maryland
Expert Response
This is a mystery to us as well. Here are some thoughts. The material may be a type of frass pellets, worm castings, etc. If the potting mix has a lot of organic matter, then you may be dealing with a type of pillbug or sowbug, etc. in the potting mixture.
It is not hurting anything, but we suggest that you repot with fresh potting mixture now or in the early spring. You may find more clues at that time.
Marian