Indoor Plants and Pests: How To Spot and treat them
“Bugs are not going to inherit the earth. They own it now. So we might as well make peace with the landlord.”
- Thomas Eisner
Since most if not all of us cannot stand bugs (in our homes as much as our plants) we’ll be covering all you need to know about some of the most common plant pests and how to keep them far from your houseplants.
Plant pests can be a major nuisance, and they can even damage or kill your plants. If you notice any pests on your plants, it's important to take action to treat them as soon as possible.Plant pests can be a major nuisance, and they can even damage or kill your plants. If you notice any pests on your plants, it's important to take action to treat them as soon as possible. There are a variety of different types of plant pests, each with its own unique characteristics and treatment methods. Some of the most common plant pests include:
Aphids: These small, sap-sucking insects can cause damage to leaves, stems, and flowers. They can also spread diseases to plants.
Whiteflies: These tiny, winged insects feed on the undersides of leaves, causing them to turn yellow and eventually die.
Mealybugs: These soft-bodied insects secrete a sticky substance that can attract mold and mildew. They also feed on plant sap, which can weaken plants and make them more susceptible to disease.
Scale insects: These small, hard-shelled insects attach themselves to plants and feed on sap. They can cause leaves to yellow and drop, and can also weaken plants.
Fungus gnats: These small, flying insects lay their eggs in the soil. The larvae of fungus gnats feed on plant roots, which can damage or kill plants.
The best way to treat plant pests is to identify the type of pest you're dealing with and then choose the appropriate treatment method. Some common treatment methods for plant pests include:
Spraying with insecticidal soap or neem oil: These natural insecticides can help to kill a variety of different types of plant pests, including aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. Insecticidal soap is made with a mild detergent that breaks down the insect's waxy outer coating, causing it to dehydrate and die. Neem oil is a natural insecticide that contains azadirachtin, a compound that disrupts the insect's hormones, causing it to stop feeding and eventually die.
Applying horticultural oil: Horticultural oil is a type of oil that can be used to smother insect pests. It works by coating the insect's body and preventing it from breathing. Horticultural oil is most effective when applied in the early morning or evening, when the insects are less active.
Trapping pests: Pest traps can be used to catch and kill insects. There are a variety of different types of pest traps available, including sticky traps, bait traps, and water traps. Sticky traps are coated with a sticky substance that traps insects when they land on them. Bait traps contain a food lure that attracts insects, which then become trapped in the trap. Water traps are filled with water, which drowns insects when they fall into them.
Handpicking pests: Handpicking is a simple but effective way to remove pests from plants. It is best to handpick pests in the early morning or evening, when they are less active. BE SURE TO WEAR GLOVES when handpicking pests, as some pests can carry diseases.
Applying a systemic insecticide: This type of insecticide is absorbed by the plant and can help to protect it from pests for a long period of time. The insecticide is applied to the leaves of the plant, where it is absorbed through the stomata. The insecticide then moves through the plant's vascular system, reaching all parts of the plant. This provides a long-lasting protection against pests, as the insecticide will continue to be released from the plant over time. In addition, the insecticide is less likely to be washed off by rain or irrigation water, as it is absorbed into the plant.
There are a number of different types of systemic insecticides available, each with its own unique properties. Some systemic insecticides are effective against a wide range of pests, while others are more specific. Some systemic insecticides are also more toxic than others, so it is important to choose the right type of insecticide for the specific application.
Systemic insecticides are a valuable tool for pest control. They can be used to protect a wide variety of plants from a variety of pests. They are also relatively easy to apply, and they can provide a long-lasting protection. However, it is important to choose the right type of insecticide for the specific application, and to use it according to the manufacturer's instructions.
If you're not sure what type of plant pest you're dealing with, you can take a sample to your local garden center or nursery. They can help you identify the pest and recommend the best treatment.
In addition to treating plant pests, you can also take steps to prevent them from infesting your plants in the first place. Here are some tips:
Keep your plants healthy and well-watered.
Inspect your plants regularly for signs of pests.
Remove any dead or diseased leaves from your plants.
Practice good sanitation in your garden.
Use row covers to protect your plants from pests.
By following these tips, you can help keep your plants healthy and free from pests. See something in bold? Click on it to learn more:)
As advocates of green living, we at The ZEN Succulent would love to hear your stories about how indoor plants have influenced your life. Share your experiences in the comments below or tag us on social media with your indoor garden photos. Let’s spread the word about the healing power of plants!
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