How do Houseplants get Bugs?Understanding how these unwelcome guests can suddenly appear on your beloved houseplants is the first step to keeping them away. Here are the most common ways they find their ways in, and what to do once settled.
1. Moisture Magnetism Bugs like fungus gnats are drawn to the moisture-rich environment of houseplant soil. They come in through screens, open doors or windows in the spring and summer, and make themselves at home in the comfort of your plant’s soil. Keeping the soil too wet can exacerbate this attraction. Be careful of over watering or standing water in the bottom of your plant’s pot.
2. Unwanted Hitchhikers Insects may find their way into your home through open doors and windowsm but also when you bring in fresh flowers, fresh fruit or vegetables, new plants, or fresh potting soil. Inspect any new additions thoroughly. If in doubt, keep these items separate from your indoor garden.
3. Stagnant Air Poor air circulation around indoor plants can lead to a cozy haven for pests to thrive. Without air currents to disperse them, insects can multiply rapidly, leading to full blown infestations. Adding any kind of air circulation by use of fans or even fresh air can prevent stagnation.
As a general practice, inspect your plants regularly for any signs of pests, keep them clean and pruned so they’re beautiful for your home and less attractive for insects to settle in. Natural remedies such as neem oil, or a soap spray mix can resolve and protect your plants throughout the seasons.\xa0 |