And yet, it happensand probably more often than you think.
That said, each pest leaves a specific calling card that is unique to them, he says.
If you wait until your plant suddenly starts dropping leaves, it may be too late, he says.
The best defense,Cutsumpasadds, is a good offense.
Not sure whats going on with you plants?
Below, find specific intel into how to diagnose and treat six common plant pest infestations.
former director of brand marketing at The Sill
How to deal with common houseplant pests
1.
Examine your plants weekly for traces of reinfestation, she says.
They are typically brown in color but can also be black or white.
These pests are mostly found along leaf veins or on stems.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are microscopic insects that are usually red or yellow in color.
They usually congregate on new growth on plants and the underside of leaves.
If that doesnt work, Marino says to use an insecticide that lists spider mites on the label.
Treat your plant after three days, and again in 10 days, she suggests.
Fungus gnats
If small bugs are flying around your plant, theyre probably fungus gnats, says Marino.
Fungus gnats are one-eighth of an inch, grayish, adult flies with delicate wings and long legs.
They are often found around the growing season, during favorable conditions, flying around the soil.
Fungus gnat larvae, however, feed on organic matter within the soil.
Fungus gnats also love moisture, so let your potting soil dry out completely between waterings.
It looks like the chlorophyll is getting scraped off of the plant.
New plant growth can come up distorted and brown, and dying tissue may also occur in the areas.
Heavily infested plants will have little black dots, which is the pests fecal matter.
Then, use an insecticide spray (like the aforementioned neem oil solution) to fight off the pests.
Slugs are nocturnal feeders that can vary in color from gray to brown, leaving slimy trails behind.
While these are not as common as other houseplant pests, they may appear from time-to-time.
If ragged holes are developing on leaves, you may have a slug invasion.
you’re free to try leaching the soil if they are dwelling there at night.
Otherwise, I recommend looking into slug pellets and traps if an infestation arises.
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