![]() ![]() Tip: Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers which may push soft, new growth that is extra vulnerable to aphids a 3-1-2 ratio is preferred for most indoor plant fertilizers. Some plants with fuzzy leaves like African violets or chalky-blue coloration such as echeveria may show discoloration from neem oil. Tip: Always test a small, lower leaf with an intended product to be sure it won’t discolor or damage foliage. If possible, take plant outside and gently spray with water to knock off as many bugs as you can once the plant is dry, treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Shiny, sticky substance on foliage is caused by their excrement.Ĭontrol: Isolate and trim off leaves that are most affected. Signs: Curling or crinkly leaves and damaged flower buds small white exoskeletons are left behind as the insects grow. They suck on plant sap and can usually be found on new growth, stems, and flower buds. They are small and can often be overlooked until population numbers are large. Certain species are more likely to have spider mites than others (croton, alocasia, bird of paradise, citrus, cast iron plant, palms, cordyline/ti plants, hibiscus, marijuana).Ī very common pest on outdoor plants, aphids can be found in a range of colors including green, black, brown, or yellow. Tip: Plants in hot sun tend to get mites more than low-light plants. The predators die off once their food supply is gone. In severe cases, predatory mites can be purchased from beneficial insect suppliers and released to hunt and kill the spider mites in homes or greenhouses. Prune off the most infested plant parts if possible. Isolate affected plant(s) and spray thoroughly with neem oil or insecticidal soap every 10 days until all signs of pests are gone. Signs: Small red or brown dots on leaves, dull or discolored leaves, or a fine webbing that may make the plant appear dusty.Ĭontrol: Prevention is best since they can be difficult to control keep plant foliage clean and dust-free by wiping every 2 weeks with water or neem oil. Adult mites reproduce quickly and usually lay eggs on the undersides of leaves near the stem. Though not “true” spiders these insects are very, very, tiny (about 1 mm in size, smaller than the period following this sentence). The best prevention is frequent cleaning and inspecting leaves and close observation of the health of your houseplants.Ĭome visit your local plant shop at one of our garden centers for personalized advice and to pick up both natural and conventional pesticide options. When plants are stressed or neglected, insect pests may become a severe problem in a short time. A houseplant can get pests when you bring a new plant home, bring a plant indoors from outside, through open windows or doors, from a flower arrangement or bouquet, or from other sources. The most common indoor plant pests include fungus gnats, spider mites, aphids, mealy bugs, scale, and thrips. We know-it’s not what you wanted to hear, but the good news is there are measures you can take to prevent pests, as well as some tried and true ways to eliminate them. Whether you have a large collection of houseplants or you are just starting to explore your green thumb, houseplant pests are something you will have to deal with, unfortunately.
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