Lifted a pot and found this squirming mass of tiny gray coils on the damp soil. It looks like a living pile of metallic springs. Is this something to worry about?

pot sitting on damp soil, humidity can stay very high for days at a time, especially if the area gets morning shade or if you’ve had rain in the last 24 to 72 hours. A thick layer of mulch, especially 2 to 4 inches deep, adds even more shelter.

They also feed on decaying plant material. That means old roots, soggy leaf litter, decomposing mulch, and dead stems all make the area more appealing. In other words, finding them under a pot often says more about the microclimate there than about any danger. It usually means: moist, shaded, and rich in organic matter.

4. Are millipedes dangerous to people or pets?

Usually, no. Millipedes do not bite, do not sting, and do not infest people or pets. For most families, the main concern is simply the surprise factor. They can look unsettling in large numbers, especially when all those tiny legs