Plants and Common Pests

Houseplants can occasionally fall victim to pests, which, if left unchecked, may harm or even kill your beloved greenery. Understanding common pests and how to manage them is essential for maintaining healthy indoor plants.

6 Common Plant Diseases & Pests | Benchmark Landscape

Common Houseplant Pests

Here are some of the most prevalent pests that may affect your houseplants:

1. Scale Insects

  • Identification: Small, oval, and often brown or tan, these insects attach themselves to stems and leaves, appearing as tiny bumps.
  • Damage: They suck sap from plants, leading to yellowing leaves and stunted growth.
  • Management: Manually remove them with a soft brush or cloth. Apply neem oil or insecticidal soap to affected areas.

2. Mealybugs

  • Identification: White, cotton-like masses found in leaf axils and undersides.
  • Damage: They feed on plant sap, causing leaf yellowing and drop.
  • Management: Wipe off with alcohol-soaked cotton swabs. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil for larger infestations.

3. Whiteflies

  • Identification: Tiny, white, moth-like insects that fly up when the plant is disturbed.
  • Damage: They feed on the underside of leaves, causing yellowing and wilting.
  • Management: Use yellow sticky traps to capture adults. Spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil.

4. Thrips

  • Identification: Slender, black or brown insects that are difficult to see without magnification.
  • Damage: They scrape plant surfaces to feed, leading to silvery or stippled leaves.
  • Management: Prune and dispose of infested leaves. Apply insecticidal soap or neem oil.

5. Fungus Gnats

  • Identification: Small, dark flies that hover around soil.
  • Damage: Larvae feed on roots, leading to poor plant growth.
  • Management: Allow soil to dry between waterings. Use sticky traps and consider applying a biological control like Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis.

Preventative Measures

  • Inspect New Plants: Always check for signs of pests before introducing new plants to your collection.
  • Quarantine: Isolate new or infested plants for at least two weeks.
  • Cleanliness: Regularly remove dead leaves and debris from soil surfaces.
  • Proper Watering: Avoid overwatering, as damp conditions attract pests like fungus gnats.
  • Air Circulation: Ensure good airflow around plants to deter pests.

Natural Pest Control Products

Consider using the following products to manage pest issues:

Neem Oil Insecticide

  • Description: A natural oil that disrupts pest life cycles.
  • Usage: Dilute as directed and spray on affected plants.

Insecticidal Soap

  • Description: A soap-based solution that penetrates insect exoskeletons.
  • Usage: Apply directly to pests, ensuring thorough coverage.

Sticky Traps

  • Description: Yellow or blue adhesive traps that attract flying pests.
  • Usage: Place near affected plants to monitor and reduce adult populations.

By staying vigilant and proactive, you can keep your houseplants healthy and free from common pests. Regular inspections and prompt action are key to effective pest management.