Even these super-resilient houseplants sometimes fall prey to pesky visitors. Here are 6 Common Snake Plant Bugs that You Should Be Aware Of!
Tough on the outside but softies inside? Snake Plants are the most solid and resilient houseplants that even purify indoor air! But occasionally, cunning bugs and pests get to even these hardy succulents!
1. Spider Mites
Spider mites are bugs that feed on stressed snake plants. These pests are often found in dry conditions, and they suck the sap from the succulent, causing red or white spots, punctures, and webs, causing its leaves to wilt and look less aesthetic.
There are a few ways to deter spider mites from bugging your snake plant!
- Just pour half a cup of rubbing alcohol into four cups of water to create the perfect kryptonite for these pests! Spray this solution or dab a cloth with it on the leaves.
- Soapy water and diluted neem oil are also effective in deterring these pests.
- If it’s still in the early stages, you could try increasing the humidity around the plant since these bugs only thrive in dry air.
- If you have space outdoors, place your snake plant where predators like ladybugs can feed on spider mites.
2. Mealybugs
If you notice small cotton-like fuzzy masses on the leaves of your snake plant, they are probably mealybugs. These scaled insects are found in warm, moist environments and love lush foliage, especially snake plants. They weaken the plant by sucking its juices and lead to yellowing and slower growth.
3. Scale Insects
Scale insects are also common snake plant bugs you’ll come across. The mother scale bug produces hundreds of eggs, which eventually hatch, and the infestation grows exponentially. You’ll need to take action as soon as you spot them.
4. Thrips
When you bring home a basket of veggies, inspect it closely, as it may harbor the infamous thrips. These slender bugs with fringed wings pierce the surface of snake plants and leave behind silver-grey blotches.
5. Aphids
Aphids are frequent bugs on snake plants, especially when the plants are stressed or over-fertilized. These small green or black insects suck the sap of snake plant leaves, leading to distorted growth and sticky residue problems.
6. Fungus Gnats
Have you wondered what those fly-like creatures that are such couch potatoes you can flick them away with a finger are? If yes, Fungus gnat is the name you are looking for.
