White Bugs on Indoor Plants

An early identification of bugs on house plants can usually lead to a quick diagnosis and recovery. House plants should be checked regularly for any signs of pest infestation. Serious cases that are left untreated can damage and weaken the plant.

Whitefly

• One of the more common pests of house plants is the whitefly. They will feast on the sap, leaving the plant weak and often distorted. Clouds of small whiteflies will usually fly up into the air if the plant is disturbed. Sticky traps placed near the plant are an effective method of removal. A mild soapy solution sprayed over the flies and eggs is equally effective.

Mealybugs

• Mealybugs have small white bodies and secrete a white cottony wax, giving them an outer coating that makes the plant seem as if it has tiny cotton balls on it. Mealybugs multiply rapidly, so infestations should be dealt with promptly before other healthy plants become infected. Spraying with a mixture of alcohol and water can effectively destroy the bugs.

Springtails

• Springtails are often found in or around house plant soil. They are soil inhabitants but can often be seen hopping around on the surface of the soil, especially after watering and when over-watering has occurred. These can be either black or white in color and measure approximately 1mm. Misting a plant with a soapy solution can be effective. Alternatively, allowing the plant to dry out a little should prevent springtails.