Common Houseplant Pests
Houseplant pests feed on leaves, stems, and roots, weakening plants over time. Early detection is critical -- small infestations are far easier to treat before they spread to nearby plants.
Quick Diagnosis
Spider mites appear as tiny dots on leaf undersides, often with fine webbing. Mealybugs form white, cottony clusters at leaf joints and stem bases. Scale insects look like small brown bumps along stems. Whiteflies flutter up in clouds when foliage is disturbed. Sticky honeydew residue on leaves or surfaces indicates sap-feeding insects. Fungus gnats are small flies hovering near the soil surface, attracted to damp conditions.
Causes
Understanding the root cause is the first step to fixing the problem.
- 1Bringing new plants home without quarantining them first.
- 2Open windows or doors allowing outdoor insects inside.
- 3Overwatering creating conditions that attract fungus gnats.
- 4Low humidity stressing plants and making them vulnerable to spider mites.
- 5Contaminated soil or reused pots harboring eggs and larvae.
- 6Overcrowding plants, reducing air circulation.
Treatment Steps
Follow these steps to treat common houseplant pests in your indoor plants.
- 1
Isolate the affected plant immediately to prevent spread.
- 2
For mild infestations, wipe leaves with a damp cloth or cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol.
- 3
Spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil, covering all leaf surfaces including undersides.
- 4
For fungus gnats, let the soil dry out completely between waterings and apply a top layer of sand or diatomaceous earth.
- 5
For persistent infestations, use a systemic insecticide granule added to the soil.
- 6
Remove and discard heavily infested leaves or stems.
- 7
Repeat treatments every 7-10 days for at least 3 cycles to catch newly hatching insects.
Prevention Tips
Keep your plants healthy by following these preventive measures.
- Quarantine new plants for 2 weeks before placing them near existing plants.
- Inspect plants regularly, especially the undersides of leaves and stem joints.
- Maintain proper humidity to discourage spider mites.
- Avoid overwatering to prevent fungus gnats.
- Keep leaves clean by wiping with a damp cloth monthly.
- Ensure good air circulation between plants.