Bugs aren’t just a problem in gardens and on outdoor plants. Pests can slip into your home and snack on your houseplants. Implementing a few preventative measures can set your plants up for success and help to keep hungry bugs away. Check out a few tips to keep pests from bugging your houseplants.
Know the Signs of a Pest Problem
Identifying a pest problem early can help protect your plants. Regularly check your plants for pests and signs of pests. Pests can often be found on the underside of leaves and areas where the stem and leaves meet. The presence of bugs will usually cause changes in the appearance of your houseplants. Be on the lookout for holes, wilting, and discoloration. Stunted growth and the presence of honeydew are also signs of a pest problem.
Keep Your Plants Healthy
Weak plants are more susceptible to pests. Make sure your plants are placed in an area where they will receive enough sunlight. Ensure plants are placed in the correct pot size. Provide adequate air circulation for your plants. Keeping them near open windows or turning on a fan can help. Don’t place too many plants in the same container.
Don’t Overwater Your Plants
Plants need water, but too much water can lead to problems. It’s important to know the needs of your plants and to only give them the water they need. Soil that remains moist can attract fungus gnats. The larvae can eat the roots of plants, causing damage. Pay attention to your plants and look for signs of overwatering. If your plants have discoloration, water spots, blisters, or rotting, you may be overwatering your houseplants.
Use the Right Soil
Using the right soil can help ensure your plants are left alone. It’s best to avoid placing plants in soil from your yard and garden. This soil can be contaminated with pests or diseases. The same is true if an open bag of soil is left outside. When planting your houseplants, be sure to place them in a clean pot. You’ll also want to keep the soil clean by removing fallen leaves.
Isolate Your Plants
It’s exciting to bring home a new plant, but you’ll want to be careful. Examine the plant before carrying it into your house. It’s best to keep it isolated for a little bit to ensure pests aren’t hiding on it. Isolating plants can also help if you discover bugs at a later date. This can prevent your other plants from becoming infested with bugs.
Use a Plant-Based Insecticide Spray
Using products with natural plant essential oils can effectively keep bugs away. Our plant-based 3-in-1 Garden Spray kills pests on contact and provides residual repellency. It can help control and prevent insects and mites. It also helps to protect your plants from fungal diseases. Our 3-in-1 Garden Spray can be used on a variety of plants.
Ensuring your plants stay healthy means keeping hungry pests away from them. Thankfully, there are things you can do to prevent pests. If you’re dealing with a bug problem, we’re here to help! Check out our Maggie’s Farm Simply Effective™ Pest Control products for a more environmentally and family-friendly solution.