Unwanted Guests: How to identify, treat & prevent common houseplant pests

To ensure that your indoor plants remain healthy and beautiful, it's essential to check them regularly for common pests and treat them promptly if you find any signs of infestation.

Common Indoor Plant Pests

Indoor plants can be susceptible to a range of pests, including spider mites, mealybugs, fungas gnats, and scale insects. These pests can be hard to spot because they are often small and can blend in with the plant's foliage. However, there are some signs you can look for to identify these pests.

Spider mites are tiny pests that spin webs on the undersides of leaves. Mealybugs are small white bugs that look like tiny pieces of cotton. Fungas gnats are small flying insects that can often be seen buzzing around the plant. Scale insects are small, flat insects that attach themselves to the plant and feed on its sap.

Left image: Mealy Bugs / Centre image: Fungus Gnat / Right image: Spidermites

The Importance of Checking and Treating for Common Pests

Unchecked infestations of common pests can cause significant damage to your indoor plants. Spider mites and whiteflies, for example, can cause discolouration and premature leaf drop. Mealybugs and scale insects can also cause leaf drop, as well as weakening the plant and making it more susceptible to disease.

Treating Common Pests in Indoor Plants

Treating infestations can be difficult, especially if they have already spread throughout the plant. Prevention is always the best approach, so it's essential to check your indoor plants regularly for any signs of pests. If you do find any pests, it's crucial to take action quickly before the infestation gets worse.

Our Mineral Oil is created using a mix of oils, and not only helps to prevent and treat harmful pests, but can also be used as a leaf shine to keep foliage looking lush and dust free. Wiping down your plant's foliage on a regular basis not only helps to prevent infestations, but also removes dust that will otherwise limit the plant's ability to photosynthesise and grow.

When using any treatment, it's essential to follow the instructions carefully and use the appropriate protective gear. It's also a good idea to isolate the infected plant from other plants to prevent the infestation from spreading.

Regular checks and prompt treatment can prevent damage and help your plants thrive. By staying vigilant and taking action when necessary, you can enjoy your indoor plants without the worry of infestations.

If you'd like to learn more about pests and pest prevention, come along to one of our Indoor Plant 101 Workshops! We will take you through everything you need to know about indoor plants, including identifying common pests and various ways to diagnose, treat and prevent. We hold these workshops multiple times a year so check our Workshops page for more information.