Learning to Fight Indoor Plant Pests

In addition to plant diseases, all sorts of pests such as aphids, spider mites, and ants attack indoor plants. Thus, learn how they develop to decide proper ways to control them.

Learn how pests develop on indoor plants in the first place

In principle, indoor plants are a little more protected from pests than outdoor plants, but infestation also occurs again and again. This has nothing to do with the hygiene or cleanliness in your own four walls. Annoying insects get into the apartment in different ways and thus to the plants.

• Pests are already in the plant nursery and in the potting soil.
• They were brought in through clothing, for example by taking a walk in the forest or in the fields.
• They were brought in by domestic animals such as dogs and cats.
• They come in through open windows or doors.

Weak plants are more likely to be attacked than healthy plants. You should therefore ensure that your indoor plants are in an optimal location and that they are properly cared for.

You should also check the houseplant for pests when you buy it and if in doubt, do not take it home with you. First, let new plants stand in isolation from other plants for a while to make sure they are healthy and free from pests.

Learn the signs of pests on house plants

How an infestation manifests itself, of course, always depends a little on which pest has attacked your plant. Some pests can be seen relatively easily with the naked eye. However, there are other signs that generally indicate a pest infestation that you need to know.

Discoloration of leaves: Any discoloration could be an indication of parasites. This fungus occurs chiefly where pests conceal their honeydew. Lack of water, plant diseases or care errors can be other causes.

Curled or deformed parts of plants: This form of plant behavior is always a warning sign and caused by some pests.

Sticky leaves: This can be the so-called honeydew that various insects excrete.

Web/cobwebs: Normal cobwebs do no damage to the plant. However, if the webs are tangled and white, woven around a leaf or populated by many small white dots, it is very likely that they are mealybugs or spider mites.