2 July 2024
Pests in houseplants can be a nuisance and affect the health of your plants. It is important to take early action to prevent them from spreading and to protect your plants. Here are some common pests that can affect houseplants and tips on how to identify and control them.
Spider mites
- Distinguishing features: Small, reddish or yellowish dots on the leaves, fine cobwebs.
- Control: Spray the plant regularly with water to increase the humidity. Use of predatory mites or insecticides.
Aphids
- Identifying features: Small, soft insects on the leaves that feed on plant sap.
- Control: Rinse with a strong jet of water, encourage natural enemies such as ladybugs, use insecticidal soaps or neem oil
Whiteflies
- Identification features: Tiny, white flies that leave behind a cloud of dust when they move.
- Control: Use yellow sticky traps, treat plants with neem oil, encourage natural enemies
Scale insects
- Identifying features: Small, hard, brown or black shields on the leaves.
- Control: Remove mechanically, treat plants with insecticidal soaps, check regularly for infestation
Fungus gnats
- Identifying features: Small, black flies buzzing around the plant.
- Control: Allow the top layer of soil to dry out, use yellowing boards, encourage natural enemies
Thrips
- Identifying features: Tiny, slender insects that leave silver or bronze-colored spots on the leaves.
- Control: Spray plant with water, use predatory mites, use neem oil
It is important to regularly inspect your houseplants to detect early signs of pests. Preventive measures such as isolating new plants and maintaining a healthy plant environment can also help to minimize pest infestations. If you have persistent problems, we will be happy to provide you with advice and assistance.
