Banshee,

They could possibly be nematodes. Not all varieties are harmful, but I would not hazard a guess as to what you should do, if anything. This is just to offer you somewhere to begin your research. Check out the link below. Sorry I could not be of greater assistance.

Norm

Here is a link that might be useful: Nematodes

Thank you. That does look like what I saw... I do have a question though: are nematodes microscopic? If they are then I guess it can't be what I saw. Your information was very helpful Norm, thanks again.

Banshee,

The page I referred you to lists length at 1/20", which is just under 1/16". That would visible to someone with good eyesight. Good luck.

Norm

Some people would also describe the larvae of fungus gnats as 'clear worms'. Just a thought. Doubt that they are nematodes.

What should I do?

I would remove the juniper from the container, rinse the roots, and repot into your own good mix.

What should the soil mix consist of? Please help, I'm such a newbie. I only bought the juniper 3 days ago and its still so young...I don't want it to go into shock or anything...

Banshee,

There have been numerous discussions regarding soil mixes on this site and every other site I have visited. Rather than go over it all again I suggest that you use the search box and review what has already been written. In a nutshell you are going to need some type of inorganic material. I have used two different fired clay products and small lava rock. Most people also include some percentage of organic material as well, usually pine or fir bark. The ratio varies with species, your location and personal preference. These materials are usually sieved to remove small particle that tend to clog things up.

If all of this seems daunting to you I have seen ready mixed bonsai soil bagged at nurseries. It is a little on the expensive side but if you only have one tree to transplant you can avoid the hassle for now.

Back to you original problem though, you could possibly remove the loose soil at the surface of your tree and/or submerge the pot briefly in order to float the pests out. This would be less traumatic than an out of season repotting. There is also the possibility of using a pesticide if you feel that it is necessary.

Norm

Thank you