Question
I just brought home a new orchid that looks very healthy and is loaded with buds. While inspecting the sphagnum that it was potted in I discovered very tiny whitish colored bugs living there. I don't think that they are spider mites since there is no damage to the plant and I have not seen any of the typical signs they leave. These bugs are slightly longish looking and I am pretty sure I can see antennas on them. Could you tell me what these may be and if they will harm my new plant or infest my other plants?

Answer
Hi Melissa, Can't be sure, but I suspect they are fungus gnat larvae. Heavy infestations may cause some damage from root feeding, but usually they are more of just a nuisance.   Look for Imidacloprid granules.  Just sprinkle the correct amount on the soil and water it in.  It controls aphids, scales, mealybugs and fungus gnat larvae.  Jim