The 7 most common houseplant pests and how to control them

What are the seven most common houseplant pests?

The seven most common houseplant pests are mealybugs, spider mites, aphids, scale insects, whiteflies, fungus gnats, and thrips.

What are the signs that my houseplant has a pest problem?

Common signs of pest problems include yellow or stippled leaves, sticky residue, webbing, distorted growth, and the presence of insects or their eggs.

How can I prevent pests from attacking my houseplants?

Practice good plant hygiene, including keeping plants clean and removing dead leaves, and inspect new plants before bringing them indoors.

Quarantine any plants that show signs of infestation.

How can I control mealybugs on my houseplants?

Use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to remove individual mealybugs, or use a systemic insecticide to treat entire plants.

How can I control spider mites on my houseplants?

Spray plants with a mixture of water and mild soap or use an insecticidal spray specifically for spider mites.

How can I control aphids on my houseplants?

Wash plants with a strong spray of water, use insecticidal soap, or introduce natural predators like ladybugs.

How can I control scale insects on my houseplants?

Use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to remove individual scale insects, or spray plants with an insecticidal oil.

How can I control whiteflies on my houseplants?

Use yellow sticky traps to capture adult whiteflies, or spray plants with insecticidal soap or oil.

How can I control fungus gnats on my houseplants?

Water plants only when the soil surface is dry and use a layer of sand or gravel to cover the soil surface, preventing adult fungus gnats from laying their eggs.

How can I control thrips on my houseplants?

Remove affected flowers and inspect new plants before bringing them indoors.

Use sticky traps or spray plants with an insecticidal soap or oil.

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