Mourning flies and other houseplant pests can be a real nuisance. While some may cause minimal damage, others can wreak havoc on your beloved plants. Early detection is key to preventing a full-blown infestation. Mourning flies, in particular, can be quite bothersome, emerging from the soil when you water your plants. These tiny black flies can be frustrating, but there are effective methods to minimize their presence and other common houseplant pests.
Here are our top tips:
Mourning flies
If you notice those pesky little black flies, known as fungus gnats, it's time to take action. To prevent the spread of eggs to other plants, isolate the infested plant. Fungus gnats lay their eggs in moist soil, so witholding water for two weeks can disrupt their life cycle. Additionally, covering the soil with pebbles, horticultural grit, or specialized decorative coverings can act as a barrier, deterring the flies from laying eggs.
Mealybugs
Mealybugs, those tiny, white, cottony pests, can wreak havoc on your plants. Feeding on plant sap, they can cause distorted growth and, in severe cases, lead to plant death. Their waxy coating acts as a protective shield, making them resistant to many pesticides.
Spider mites
Spider mites are minuscule pests that can cause significant damage to your plants. These tiny arachnids suck sap from plant leaves, causing yellowing and eventual death. While they may be difficult to spot, their presence can be indicated by fine webbing on the plant. To combat spider mites, a strong jet of water can dislodge them. For persistent infestations, neem oil or other insecticidal soaps can be effective.
Aphids
Aphids are one of the most common houseplant pests, often found clustered on stems and the undersides of leaves. These tiny, pear-shaped insects can vary in color, but green is most common. To control aphids, a combination of methods may be necessary. Start by spraying the affected plant with a strong jet of water to dislodge the aphids. For more severe infestations, neem oil or rubbing alcohol can be applied weekly for several weeks.
Scale insects
Scale insects are another common houseplant pest. They are typically covered in a protective waxy coating, often white in color. By scraping away this coating, you can reveal the insect beneath. Like mealybugs, scale insects suck sap from the plant, which can weaken and eventually kill it. For small infestations, you can manually remove the scale insects by scraping them off. However, for larger infestations, a systemic insecticide or a horticultural oil spray containing neem oil or canola oil can be effective. The waxy coating on adult scales can make it difficult for these treatments to penetrate, so multiple applications may be necessary.
Struggling with pesky plant pests? Need expert advice on houseplant care? Visit us at Carpenters Nursery for all your houseplant needs.
