Troubleshooting

What to Do If Your Plant Has Bugs

Identify the type of pests on your plant. Common culprits include aphids, spider mites, mealybugs, and thrips. Knowing which pest you're dealing with will help you select the most effective treatment.

Once the type of bug is determined the next step is to isolate your plant. Move the affected plant away from other plants to prevent the pests from spreading.

For small infestations, you can gently wipe off pests using a damp cloth or rinse the plant under a gentle stream of water. This works well for larger insects like aphids.

If the infestation is more significant, try using insecticidal soap, neem oil, or a mixture of water and dish soap. Spray the plant thoroughly, covering both the tops and bottoms of leaves. Be sure to test on a small area first to avoid damage.

If there are heavily infested leaves or stems, trim them off and dispose of them in the trash (not compost) to prevent the pests from spreading.

Yikes! Your plant has spider mites! Make sure to quarantine your plant as the mites can easily spread. Spider mites prefer dry conditions, so increasing humidity around your plant can help deter them. Grouping plants together, using a humidifier, or misting the plant can create a less favorable environment for them. If the condition persists, spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil, which are safe and effective against spider mites. Make sure to coat the entire plant, especially the undersides of the leaves. Repeat treatment every few days until the infestation is under control.