PP-744 (revised)

Houseplants
Proper Care
and Management
of Pest Problems

Janet J. Knodel, Extension Entomologist

Department of Entomology,
School of Natural Resource Sciences
Kasia Kinzer, Plant Diagnostician
Department of Plant Pathology
Ron Smith, Extension Horticulturist
Department of Plant Sciences

December 2009
Houseplant problems often arise when Cultural
Considerations
a new plant is brought into a home that
previously was free of any problems.
We Americans enjoy giving houseplants

Soil
as gifts or we want to sustain one that
was given to us by a beloved relative
Plant roots must have air, nutrients and water. Potting soil
who recently passed on. Upon acquiring
must be porous enough to allow drainage of excess water
any new plants, whether it’s one you and admit the oxygen (soil aeration) the roots need.
purchased, a gift or one passed on from Garden soil may appear ideal for potting indoor plants,
a relative, isolate that plant from others in but it actually causes problems. This soil may be
the house for at least 30 days. During that wonderful for outdoor gardening under natural conditions,
but after a few months, garden soil becomes hard and
time, inspect the plant carefully for insect or
almost rocklike in a plant pot. Plants in garden soil grow
disease problems. If minor, take corrective satisfactorily for a month or two, but soon the lower
action that is suggested in this publication leaves turn yellow and the plants become weak. This
problem is the result of poor drainage and the lack of
and be sure the problem is under control
soil aeration due to improper soil structure. Most garden
or eliminated before placing it anywhere soils become compacted with time and houseplants grow
near your present healthy plant collection. If poorly in firm soil.
the problem is too far along, you really are A proper soil mixture is of utmost importance to a
better off discarding the plant. houseplant because the roots are restricted by the pot. A
good potting soil should have the capacity to retain some
Growing houseplants is a challenging and air and moisture and yet drain well and hold nutrients.
rewarding hobby that can be enjoyed by Sand or perlite added to the soil will improve aeration and
drainage. Clay or organic matter will help retain water.
everyone and need not be difficult. Give Organic matter plus commercial fertilizers will maintain
plants what they need and they’ll do well for adequate nutrient levels. Some “soilless” potting media do
you. Give them just about what they need contain soil, so the addition of fertilizer may be required
to provide all essential plant nutrients.
and they hold their own. Deny too many of
their needs and plants fail. For general use, a good soil mix includes approximately
equal parts of good garden loam, organic matter
Take time to learn the cultural needs of (preferably peat moss, although well-rotted manure
or leaf mold will do) and sharp sand or perlite (Figure
a particular plant when you purchase it
1). When sandy soil is used in the mixture, reduce the
and keep a watchful eye out for possible amount of sand or perlite.
disease and insect problems. If a plant has Always use pasteurized soil when repotting at home.
poor color or distorted leaves or flowers, This can be purchased at a local store or soil can be
or if the plant tends to droop, something is pasteurized at home.
wrong. These distress signals tell you the
plant is having problems and you need to
take corrective steps.

The leading causes of houseplant failure

are overwatering and/or too little light for
the species. Check these conditions first
before suspecting anything else.
Figure 1
2
Methods for Pasteurizing Repotting
Small Amounts of Soil With Heat Symptoms of plants needing repotting include the
following: wilting within a day or two after watering,
Conventional Oven very little or no new growth and a general lack of vigor,
Place moist soil in a deep baking pan or roaster foliar discoloration, and water flushing out of the bottom
(aluminum, glass or iron). The soil should be level and of the pot as it is being watered. To confirm whether it
not more than 4 inches deep. Bury a small potato (1½ needs repotting, hold the plant and soil ball with one
inches in diameter) in the center. Then tightly cover the hand, invert it and lightly tap the edge of the pot on a
container with aluminum foil. Punch a small hole in the hard surface such as a table or countertop. If the soil
center of the soil but away from the potato and insert mass is completely surrounded by a mass of roots, the
the bulb end of a meat or candy thermometer into the plant needs to be repotted.
soil. Place the container in an oven on low heat (180 to To begin the process of repotting, be sure the plant
200 degrees Fahrenheit). Keep the soil in the oven for is watered thoroughly a day or two ahead of time and
30 minutes after the soil temperature has reached 180 water again just before removing it from the pot. If the
F. Remove and cool the soil. The potato should be well- plant can be picked up, knock the pot against a table
cooked, indicating sufficient heat penetration throughout edge or other hard surface.
the soil. Do not overcook the soil.
If the plant is too large to pick up, a couple of tactics
Microwave Oven have proven successful. Tip the pot and knock the high
Place approximately 2 pounds of moist soil in a side with a rubber mallet or the heel of your hand. Roll
polypropylene bag. Leave the top open and place the pot and repeat this process at least three more
the bag in the center of a microwave oven. Heat it for times in a different area of the pot. This should help
2½ minutes on full power - about 650 watts. After the loosen and break the adhesive character of the side of
heating is completed, close the top of the bag and allow the pot. Then carefully grab the base of the plant and
the soil to cool before removing it. pull it loose.
On very large plants such as palms and fig trees,
sit on the floor in front of the plant and place a foot
Potting on opposite sides of the pot, then tug the plant out.
Another tactic if this doesn’t seem to work (never
Always use thoroughly cleaned potting containers with damage the plant in trying to extract it from the
proper drainage holes. Before reusing any pots, they container) is to strike or break the bottom of the
should be scrubbed clean and thoroughly rinsed in a container and push the plant out from the bottom. As
solution of one part household bleach to nine parts you may have guessed, this could be a two-person job.
water to kill disease organisms present.
Now you need to make a choice: cut the roots or slice
Cover the drainage holes in the pot with pieces of off four slabs of root mass. Slicing 1-inch-thick slabs
broken clay pots or coarse gravel. Next add enough with a sharp knife from the sides of the root mass is
potting soil to bring the soil level of the finished planting easier, so the result is a cube that easily can slip back
to about ½ inch below the rim of the pot. This top space into the same pot or, if desired, a slightly larger one.
serves as a reservoir for watering. Using fresh, sterile or pasteurized potting soil and a
piece of broken crockery, first cover the drain hole(s)
with the crockery, then cover the bottom of the pot with
about 1 inch of the soil. Adjust the thickness so that the
plant will be at the same depth it grew in its previous
container. Fill in the space between the edge of the
roots and the sides of the container with potting soil,
using fingers, a slender trowel or even a knife to get the
soil in place.

3
Watering Feeding
Close observation and good judgment are essential Many brands of fertilizers are designed for houseplants.
for proper houseplant watering. Growing conditions Follow the manufacturer’s directions and do not assume
vary from home to home and room to room due to that twice the recommended amount is better than the
variations in light, temperature (day and night) and recommended amount; overfeeding may damage your
humidity. Plants with roots in shallow containers may plants.
need daily watering, while plants in large tubs may go
Plant injury can be reduced by leaching or rinsing
several weeks between waterings. Succulents such as
out part of the dissolved fertilizer with clear water if
aloe, jade plants and other dry-soil plants require less
overfertilization occurs. Use a container with holes in
watering than moist-soil plants such as African violets
the bottom to allow thorough drainage. Place the pot in
and ferns.
a sink and water liberally three to four times at half-hour
Proper watering keeps the soil moist enough to supply intervals, allowing the water to flush out the dissolved
the plants’ needs without drowning the roots. Saturated fertilizer and other accumulated salts.
soil drives out air, and roots can die from lack of oxygen.
A white, flaky material on the soil surface of potted
Proper pot drainage is critical. All the soil in a pot should
plants often is observed one to several months after
be wetted thoroughly each time the plant is watered.
potting. These are mineral salts that accumulate in
Always empty the drainage water from the catch basin
the soil. Well water in North Dakota contains varying
beneath your plant container after each watering. This
amounts of dissolved salts, as does the fertilizer you
will reduce the possibility of water-logged soil and
apply. With continuous watering, these dissolved salts
prevent the dissolved salts in the water from being
accumulate in the soil and appear on the soil surface.
drawn back into the soil. Soil should dry to the point that
The salts can be flushed out of the soil from time to
the plant approaches moisture stress between watering
time to prevent salt injury to your plants. Leaching
intervals.
(rinsing) the soil of most houseplants every three to six
Do not use water that is unusually high in salts or has months is a good cultural practice and will reduce the
been run through a water softener to water plants. Rain accumulation of salts in the soil. Clay pots that have
or melted snow are good alternate sources of water for accumulated salts should be soaked in hot water for 24
houseplants. Some plants are sensitive to the chlorine hours before reuse.
in city water systems. Letting a container of tap water
Fertilizer will not cure all ills. It will not help a plant that is
sit overnight before use will allow most of the gas to
suffering from poor drainage, insect infestation, disease
escape.
or overwatering. Fertilize only when new growth is
evident.

Interstate Transportation
of Plants
If plants are to be transported across state lines,
determine the regulations of the states en route to
avoid possible transportation of harmful plant
pests to areas not previously infested. For
more information on interstate transportation
of plants, contact the North Dakota
Department of Agriculture, 600 E. Boulevard
Ave., Dept. 602, Bismarck, ND 58505-
0020; Toll-free: (800) 242-7535;
E-mail: [email protected];
Web site: www.agdepartment.com.

4
Houseplant Trouble Signs
Wilting or partial wilting often will be the result of
improper watering. If sudden wilting is diagnosed, check
the roots, pot or soil for the trouble. Some common
causes are a lack of water, excess water, root rot, too
much fertilizer and/or a salt buildup. Check the cause by hollow and
pressing your finger, up to the first knuckle, into the soil. easily broken
If the soil is dry to this depth, the plant needs water. If between the
the soil is wet, too much water in the root area may be thumb and
the problem. The roots may be saturated or rotting and index fingers.
incapable of absorbing water from the soil and supplying
Destruction
it to the leaves. Overwatered plants should be repotted
of the roots by soil-borne
into fresh soil. (Refer to the section on yellowing and
fungi and nematodes
death of all leaves and poor growth for more information
may cause a yellowing of the entire plant.
on root rot.)
Severe infestations of mites, aphids and scale
Sudden loss of leaves is frequently caused by a rapid insects, fertilizer burn, improper light and
temperature change. It also may be caused by such temperature, or improper pH all may cause plant
factors as prolonged hot or cold drafts, dry air, exposure yellowing. Soil pH refers to the acidity or alkalinity of a
to gas or furnace fumes or by changing the plant from soil measured on a scale of one to 14, with seven being
a sunny to a dark location. Ficus benjamina, commonly neutral. Anything below seven is acidic and anything
called weeping fig, frequently has sudden leaf drop above seven is alkaline.
when moved to a location with lower light intensity.
Some plants such as the Norfolk Island pine and
Yellowing or death of leaves may indicate a nutrient Boston fern require an acidic soil medium. This can be
deficiency, usually nitrogen or iron. First apply a nitrogen achieved by using a potting mixture high in peat and
fertilizer. If the foliage does not appear greener after an acidic fertilizer. Acidic fertilizers help reduce the pH
three to four days, do not add additional nitrogen. of the soil. Most North Dakota well and river water is
Instead apply a chelated iron product. Iron is essential alkaline, so regular use of an acidifying fertilizer would
to healthy, green leaves and may be present in the soil be advantageous to plant growth.
but in a form that the plant cannot use. Chelated iron is
Finely specked leaves with a faint mottled, lighter color
in a form that is readily available to the plant roots.
indicate a spider mite infestation. When the mites are
The yellowing and death of lower leaves may occur if plentiful, the upper and sometimes the lower surfaces
plants become pot bound because of extensive root of the leaves may appear dusty due to their webbing.
development. Rubber plant, Dracena, Diffenbachia and To check plants for spider mites, shake several suspect
other woody plants are especially prone to this problem. leaves or branches over a sheet of white paper. Look
When the lower leaves first start to yellow, apply extra closely at the specks that have fallen on the paper. If
nitrogen fertilizer or consider repotting. Occasional lower they are moving, they are spider mites. More information
leaf drop may be normal. The length of time a plant will on mites and their control is given in the chart on pages
hold its leaves varies from species to species. 9 and 12.
Yellowing of all leaves and poor growth may be due Bronzed or abnormally reddened leaves indicate cold
to excessive soil moisture and/or root rot. If the drainage temperature damage or a deficiency of phosphorus
hole in the pot or plant box is plugged or if the plants or potassium. Check the recommended temperature
constantly stand in water, the soil will be waterlogged range for the plant. If a nutrient deficiency is suspected,
and lack sufficient oxygen. fertilize with a complete fertilizer or repot in new soil.
If a root rot problem is suspected, remove the rootball Unnaturally small, pale leaves and spindly plants are
and check the roots. Healthy roots and root tips will be most generally the result of insufficient light. This is
white or cream-colored. Rotted roots are brown-black especially common during the winter or when outdoor
and may appear slimy. Severely rotted roots may be or greenhouse-grown plants are brought into the home.
Small leaves also might indicate a need for fertilizer.

5
Brown leaf tips and margins can be caused by Other leaf spots, varying in appearance, may be
exposure to hot dry air, improper watering, insect caused by aerosol products, hot grease in the kit-
feeding, salt accumulations (Figure 2), or objects chen area, cold water (especially on African violets
rubbing against the leaves. Water that is chlorinated and gloxinias) or the sun shining on wet leaves. In
or contains added or natural amounts of fluoride can rare cases, a pathogen may be involved. For more in-
harm sensitive plants. Perlite (the white material in many formation on plant pathogens, see the table on pages
potting mixes) and fertilizer products containing fluoride 14-15.
may release enough fluoride to harm sensitive plants.
Spider plants, especially the variegated variety, are very Plant distortion (leaf thickening, curling, leaf and flower
sensitive to fluoride and often are seen with leaf-tip drop) accompanied by leaf yellowing and browning
burn. Occasionally flushing the soil should help reduce a may be due to gas fumes or pesticides that are toxic
fluoride salt buildup. to the plant. Plants are very sensitive to gases and
will show symptoms before the gas concentration is
Bleached or faded spots on leaves sometimes are at a level detectable to humans. Garden soil that is
caused by direct sunlight burning plants that require contaminated with agricultural chemicals and used for
shade or are not yet accustomed to extended periods of potting houseplants can result in chemical injury to
direct sunlight. Chemicals and plant-cleaning products houseplants.
also can injure leaves.
White substances on the soil surface may indicate
two things. If crusty or crystalline, it’s probably an
accumulation of salts. The crusty surface layer of soil
can be removed and replaced with fresh soil between
repottings. Refer to the previous section on “Feeding” for
more information.
A white or light yellow moldlike growth may indicate the
presence of a saprophytic soil fungus, a fungus that
lives on dead or decaying matter. The fungus will not
harm the plant but may indicate contaminated potting
medium or an overwatered plant.
Light brown corky scablike lesions, usually occurring
on the underside of leaves and along stems, are the
result of excess water (Figure 3). This condition is
known as oedema. Careful watering and good drainage
will minimize this problem.

Figure 2. Soluable salt injury on fern.

Courtesy of R.W. Stack

Figure 3. Oedema on geranium leaf.

Courtesy of H.A. Lamey
6
Common Insects and Arthropod Pests
of Houseplants
Here are some of the most common insect and arthropod pests of houseplants, their damage/symptoms and pest
management strategies. See also Table 1 for specific insecticides available to homeowners and pests controlled.

Insect/
Arthropod Pest Pest Description and Damage Pest Management Strategy

Aphids Aphids commonly are called “plant lice” and Dip or spray plant with insecticides. Also
Order Hemiptera are minute (1/8 inch), soft-bodied insects may use systemic insecticides applied
with a pear-shaped body, long antennae and as a granular or liquid to soil. Washing
two short cornicles (tubes) at the posterior with warm, soapy water can help reduce
end of the body. Most species are green; pest infestations of aphids. For soapy
however, some are brown, reddish or black. water, use 1 to 2 teaspoons of a mild
Adults may be winged or wingless. Aphids dishwashing liquid soap per gallon of
cluster on the undersides of leaves, buds water. Do not use laundry detergent or
and other tender plant parts. Damage is automatic dishwashing detergent.
caused by piercing-sucking mouthparts.
Aphids feed on plant sap and may transmit
plant viruses in the process of feeding. Injury
symptoms include reduced plant vigor,
curled and distorted leaves and flowers.
Aphids secrete honeydew (sugary waste
product), which facilitates the growth of black
sooty mold.

Fungus gnats Adults (1/8 inch) often are seen running over Use a foliar spray for adults. Soil should
Order Diptera the soil or flying around the pots, especially be drenched with an insecticide for
after watering. Adults do not cause damage larval control.
but can be a nuisance. Adults are attracted
to light and swarm around windows. Larvae
(maggots) are white with a shiny, black-
headed capsule and feed on organic matter.
Under certain conditions, some species feed
on root hairs or roots of seedlings, causing
reduced plant growth and vigor.

Mealybugs Soft-bodied, scalelike insects (3/16 inch) Dip or spray plants. To ensure wetting
Order Hemiptera covered by a white, cottony wax layer and of mealybugs, add mild household
with long, waxy filaments extending from the detergent at a rate of ½ teaspoon per
posterior end of the body. Damage is caused gallon of water with solution. Also may
by sucking plant sap and injecting toxins into use systemic insecticides applied as a
the plant, which causes yellowing, stunting granular or liquid to soil. Washing with
and eventually plant death. Like aphids, warm, soapy water can help reduce pest
mealybugs secrete honeydew infestations of mealybugs. For soapy
on which sooty mold may water, use 1 to 2 teaspoons of a mild
develop. dishwashing liquid soap per gallon of
water. Do not use laundry detergent or
automatic dishwashing detergent.

7
Common insects and arthropod pests of houseplants (continued)
Insect/
Arthropod Pest Pest Description and Damage Pest Management Strategy

Scale insects Adult scale insects are 1/8 to 1/3 inch long Similar control as for mealybugs.
Order Hemiptera black, gray, white or brown; and protected Dip or spray plants; repeat applications
by a soft or armored covering. Scales are on at two- to three-week interval as
leaves, stems, leaf axils or roots. Immature necessary. Target dip or spray control
scales (crawlers) emerge from eggs measures at the crawler stage before
deposited under the female’s protective protective covering is formed. Also may
scale. Once crawlers establish a feeding use systemic insecticides applied as a
site, they begin to secrete the protective granular or liquid to soil. Washing with
covering over their body. Scale damage is warm, soapy water can help reduce pest
caused by sucking plant sap, infestations of scale insects. For soapy
which greatly reduces growth water, use 1 to 2 teaspoons of a mild
and vigor and even causes dishwashing liquid soap per gallon of
leaf drop as populations water. Do not use laundry detergent or
build. Scale insects secrete automatic dishwashing detergent.
honeydew on which black
sooty mold may develop.

Springtails Very minute (1/16 to 3/16 inch), generally Drench soil with insecticide. On sensitive
Order Collembola whitish, elongated or globular body shape plants, water soil to bring insects to
and wingless. Springtails can jump with the surface and then use a foliar spray to kill
aid of a forked furcula (taillike structure) insects.
when disturbed. Most often seen after
watering because this forces them to the
surface. Attracted to moist high-organic soils
and feed mainly on decaying organic matter.
Some species may feed on the root system,
causing wilting.

Thrips Adults are very small (1/16 to 1/8 inch Similar control as for aphids.
Order Thysanoptera in length), cream to dark brown insects Dip or spray plant with insecticides. Also
with narrow, long-fringed wings. Immature may use systemic insecticides applied
forms are wingless. If disturbed, adults as a granular or liquid to soil. Washing
fly readily and jump. Thrips feed on plant with warm, soapy water can help reduce
sap and also are known to vector plant pest infestations of thrips. For soapy
viruses. Feeding damage results in the leaf water, use 1 to 2 teaspoons of a mild
surfaces becoming whitened or silvery and dishwashing liquid soap per gallon of
speckled. Leaf tips wither, curl up and die. water. Do not use laundry detergent
Buds will fail to open or automatic dishwashing detergent.
normally. Several Phytoseiid mites are known
predators of thrips and commercially
available.

8
Common insects and arthropod pests of houseplants (continued)
Insect/
Arthropod Pest Pest Description and Damage Pest Management Strategy

Whiteflies Adults (1/16 inch) are snow-white with four Similar control as for aphids.
Order Hemiptera wedge-shaped wings that are held rooflike Dip or spray plant with insecticides. Also
over their body at rest. Whiteflies resemble may use systemic insecticides applied
small moths and swarm plants when as a granular or liquid to soil. Washing
disturbed. Nymphs (immature) are difficult with warm, soapy water can help reduce
to see and are pale green, flat and oval- pest infestations of whiteflies. For soapy
shaped. Both adults and nymphs cause water, use 1 to 2 teaspoons of a mild
damage by sucking sap from the foliage dishwashing liquid soap per gallon of
and vectoring plant viruses. Infested plants water. Do not use laundry detergent
are stunted and leaves turn yellow and or automatic dishwashing detergent.
may drop off. Whiteflies Several Phytoseiid mites are known
secrete honeydew on predators of whiteflies and commercially
which sooty mold may available.
develop.

Spider mites Very minute spider-like mites that barely Similar control as for aphids.
Order Acari can be seen with the naked eye. A common Dip or spray plant with insecticides.
pest is the two-spotted spider mite, which Also may use systemic insecticides
can be recognized by two dark spots on applied as a granular or liquid to soil.
the back. Warm and dry environmental Washing with warm, soapy water can
conditions favor spider mite outbreaks. help reduce pest infestations of mites.
One of the injury symptoms of spider For soapy water, use 1 to 2 teaspoons
mite infestation is silky webbing on the of a mild dishwashing liquid soap per
underside of a leaf. Adult and nymph spider gallon of water. Do not use laundry
mites remove plant sap within plant cells, detergent or automatic dishwashing
usually on the undersides of detergent. Several Phytoseiid mites are
leaves. Feeding injury shows up known predators of spider mites and
first as pale, yellowish blotches commercially available.
on leaves which causes foliage
to have a speckled appearance.
Heavy infestations will cause
leaf distortion, wilting, stunting of
plants and even leaf drop.

Cyclamen mites Cyclamen mites are primary pests of Trim off badly injured leaves, stems and
Order Acari cyclamen, but also damage other plants buds where practical. Lightly infested
such as African violets and ivy. Adult houseplants can be immersed pot and
mites are too small to be seen with the all for 15 minutes in water at 110 F.
naked eye. Adults are amber or tan and
Similar control as for spider mites. Dip
semitransparent, while the immature stages
or spray plant with insecticides. Also
are white. Cyclamen mites are found mostly
may use systemic insecticides applied
in protected places on young, tender
as a granular or liquid to soil, or soapy
leaves, buds or flowers. Damage, caused
water. Several Phytoseiid mites are
by removal of plant sap, causes leaves to
known predators of Cyclamen mites and
become twisted, curled and brittle. Buds
commercially available.
may become deformed, fail to open and
have a streaked and blotchy appearance.
Blackening of injured leaves, buds and
flowers is common.

9
Pest Management Strategies for Control
of Insect and Arthropod Pests of Houseplants
Early detection is important for proper pest Mechanical Control
management of insect and arthropod pest problems Mechanical control is feasible when few plants have low
in houseplants. If an insect is detected before it has pest infestation levels. However, mechanical methods
an opportunity to build or spread, pest management are time consuming for the homeowner and require a
strategies generally can be applied in a timely and continued effort during a period of time.
satisfactory manner.
Washing and spraying – Washing with warm, soapy
water can help reduce pest infestations of aphids,
Cultural Practices
mealybugs, scale insects, mites, thrips and whiteflies.
Cultural practices often are effective in managing For soapy water, use 1 to 2 teaspoons of a mild
insect and arthropod pest problems in houseplants, dishwashing liquid soap per gallon of water. Do not use
especially when infestation levels are light or moderate. laundry detergent or automatic dishwashing detergent.
Some common cultural practices that are easy for the Routinely wash plants twice per year or every seven to
homeowner to use are: 14 days during a heavy pest infestation. Spraying plants
Exclusion – New plants should be inspected closely for with a forceful stream of water also can be effective
pests before purchase. Buy only pest-free plants. Any in removing and drowning insects, such as aphids,
infested plant should be separated immediately from mealybugs, crawlers (scale insects) and spider mites.
other plants. Keeping new plants isolated for three to Focusing the stream of water on the undersides of
four weeks is a good idea to prevent the spread of pests leaves where most insect pests are found is important.
and allow time for eggs to develop if present at the time This tactic may not be 100 percent effective in killing
of purchase. Houseplants that are taken outside during pests and some may crawl back onto plants.
warm weather can become infested with insects and Wiping – Washing or cleaning foliage and stems with
should be examined closely before being brought back a moist cotton ball or soft cloth with soapy water or an
into the home in the fall. If a plant is heavily infested and alcohol solution (one-half water and one-half rubbing
damaged, simply disposing of it may be best. alcohol) will remove most pests. The alcohol solution
Sanitation – Potting soil should be pasteurized to may burn sensitive plants, so try this on a small area
prevent soil-borne diseases and insect pests. Always of the plant first. This is an easy way to control a light
use clean pots and potting materials. See section on soil infestation of aphids, mealybugs, crawlers (scale
pasteurization. insects) and mites. This method should be repeated
several times.
Avoid overwatering – Allowing the soil to dry can
reduce infestation by fungus gnats and springtails that Hand Removal – If the pest infestation is light, insects
require moist soil condition to survive. Overwatering also such as aphids, mealybugs and scale insects may be
can increase the incidence of fungal diseases controlled by removing them with a toothpick
that cause root rots. Proper or tweezers. Hand removal generally is not
pot drainage is important effective against very small insects and mites.
in preventing wet soil This method should be repeated several
environment. times.
Plant trimming – If the pest
infestation is severe, the
injured parts of the plants
can be removed to permit

10
regrowth and recovery. This method works best Do not dispose of excess insecticide mixture in the sink
when followed by repeated washing or chemical control. or other drains that empty into the sewage system. It is
best to dispose excess mixture on ground where runoff
Plant disposal – If the pest infestation is severe, the
or other contamination is unlikely.
plant is heavily infested, disposing of it may be the best
solution. Dusting plants is effective in controlling common insect
and arthropod pests but dust is not used commonly on
Chemical Control houseplants because it is messy and difficult to apply
Chemical control is used as the last resort for pest efficiently. A thin visible coating of dust is all that is
management. Pest identification is important when necessary to kill pests. Do not apply a heavy coat of
selecting a pesticide because some products are dust on the foliage. If possible, dust plants outside.
effective in controlling only certain pests. Using the Many trade names (or brand names) of insecticides
wrong chemical is ineffective and a waste of time are available for the homeowner. Brand or trade
and money. Some pesticides are labeled for control names, such as Ortho Rose & Flower Insect Killer, do
of household insect pests, such as cockroaches and not identify the insecticide in the container. The active
ants; however, these products may contain oils or other ingredient that is listed on the label identifies the specific
ingredients that can be phytotoxic (burn foliage) when insecticide. In Table 1, some common insecticides that
applied to houseplants. Use products that are labeled are available to homeowners for control of common
for application on houseplants. insect and arthropod pests of houseplants
All insecticides are poisons and should be handled are listed.
with care. Always read and follow the manufacturer’s
directions before using the product and always use
the labeled rates. Treating plants outside or away from
people, pets, fish, birds and other animals always is a
good idea. Wear personal protective clothing, such as
rubber gloves, dust mask, long-sleeved
shirt, pants and shoes, to prevent
pesticide poisoning. Keep pesticides
in a separate storage area that is locked
and labeled “Pesticides” and keep safe from
children. After spraying, thoroughly
wash yourself and triple rinse all
spray equipment.
Insecticides are available in
concentrated or ready-to-use spray
formulations (aerosol, hand misters, hand
atomizers). When spraying plants, covering
all plant parts thoroughly is important,
especially where insect pests are
concentrated, such as the undersides
of leaves or leaf axils.
To dip plants, make sure your container is
large enough for the insecticide-water mixture
and the whole plant to be submerged for a few
seconds. Use a cardboard disk to fit around the
plant stem to prevent the soil and plant from
spilling when you turn the plant over. After
dipping, hold the plant over the container
to allow any excess pesticide mixture to
drip off of the foliage.

11
Table 1. Some insecticides available to homeowners for control
of insect and arthropod pests of houseplants

Cyclamen mites
Fungus gnats

Scale insects

Spider mites
Springtails
Mealybugs

Whiteflies
Aphids

Thrips
Active Ingredient
Insecticide Class Trade Name(s)
Azadirachta indica Dyna-Gro Neem Oil, Bon Neem Insecticidal X X X X X
Botanical insecticide from Soap (Neem often is combined with
neem tree grown in India insecticidal soap to enhance its efficacy.)

Bacillus thuringiensis Gnatrol X

subspecies israelensis
Microbial insecticide

Bifenthrin Ortho Rose & Flower Insect Killer X X X X X X X

Pyrethroid

Capsaicin Bonide Hot Pepper Wax Concentrate X X X

Insect repellent
Botanical insecticide

Horticultural oil Bonide All Season Horticultural & X X X X X

Petroleum or paraffin Dormant Spray Oil, Sunspray Ultrafine
based oil Horticultural Oil

Imidacloprid Bayer Advanced Garden 2-in-1 Insect X X X X X

Neonicotinoid Control Plus Fertilizer Plant Spikes,
All-In-One Rose & Flower Care Concentrate

Imidacloprid Bayer Advanced Garden 3-in-1 Disease X X X X X X X X

Neonicotinoid & Mite Control Ready-to-Use /Concentrate

Imidacloprid and Bayer Advanced Dual-Action Rose & X X X X X X

beta-cyfluthrin Flower Insect Killer Ready-to-Use
Neonicotinoid and
pyrethriod

Insecticidal soap Concern Insecticidal Soap, X X X X X X X X X

Made of potassium salts Safer’s Houseplant Insecticidal Soap,
of fatty acids Schultz Garden Safe Insecticidal Soap

Malathion** Malathion X X X X X
Organophosphate

Permethrin Bonide Eight Garden & Home Insect Control, X X X X X X X

Pyrethriod Spectracide Bug Stop Multipurpose Insect
Control Concentrate

Pyrethrin Schultz Expert Gardener Houseplant & X X X X X X X

Made of extracts of Garden Insect Spray, Schultz Garden Safe
chrysanthemum flowers Houseplant & Garden Insect Spray,
Spectracide Houseplant & Garden Insect Spray

Note: Mention of any trade names does not imply endorsement of one product over another nor discrimination against any product
by the North Dakota State University Extension Service or the authors.
**Potentially sensitive plants: Boston, Maidenhair and Pteris ferns, Crassula, Gloxinia, Saintpaulia (African violets),
Begonias, Dieffenbachia (dumb cane), Schefflera

12
Diseases of Houseplants
Houseplants rarely suffer from infectious plant diseases species of Fusarium, Rhizoctonia, Phytophthora,
because the indoor environment is typically too dry Verticillium, Sclerotium and Pythium.
for plant diseases to develop. Cultural, environmental
Overwatering can lead to the development of root rot
or insect problems are more common than disease
diseases, which can be worsened by heavy potting
problems in houseplants, and some symptoms that
soils or poorly draining pots. Since several factors can
are caused by disease are similar to those caused
cause wilitng in houseplants, examine roots by carefully
by noninfectious disorders or insect injury. Disease
removing the plant from the pot while keeping the plant,
problems can be prevented or minimized by purchasing
roots and soil intact as much as possible. Healthy roots
healthy, vigorous, disease-free plants; using pasteurized
appear white to cream colored and are vigorous, while
potting soil or media when repotting; using clean pots
roots suffering from a root rot disease are typically
sanitized in a 10 percent bleach solution; and avoiding
discolored brown to dark brown. Many root rot diseases
overwatering.
cause the roots or crown to become water-soaked,
Diseases of indoor houseplants are caused by plant brown and mushy, and the outer sheath of the root may
pathogens, which are microscopic living organisms slip off the central root cortex easily in severe cases.
such as fungi, bacteria, nematodes and viruses. Plant
If the entire root system is brown and mushy, the
pathogens can cause disease on indoor plants only
plant cannot be saved, but propagating a new plant
if three conditions are met: 1) if the plant pathogen is
from cuttings may be possible for some species
present, 2) if the plant is susceptible to infection by a
of houseplants (see publication H-1257, “Home
particular plant pathogen and 3) if the environment
Propagation Techniques”). If some of the roots are still
is favorable for disease development. Since indoor
white and vigorous, the plant possibly may be saved if
environments are typically too dry, diseases on
the brown roots are cut out with a sharp, clean knife.
houseplants rarely develop.
The plant should be repotted in a new pot with clean,
pasteurized potting medium.

Root and Crown Rot Diseases

Symptoms of root rot or crown rot diseases are usually Foliar Diseases
noticeable first on the foliage. Wilting of foliage, typically
Diseases of the leaves of houseplants are rarer than
followed by yellowing or browning of the leaves, may
root rots. However, if the foliage of an indoor plant is
indicate that a root or crown rot disease is present.
subjected to high humidity or frequent misting, disease
These diseases are caused by various fungi, including
problems on the foliage can occur. Symptoms of
common foliar diseases can include leaf spots, lesions,
blights or dieback, with or without water-soaking,
yellowing, browning or defoliation of leaves. If detected
early and diagnosed correctly, cultural practices of
removing and destroying infected material often can
lead to satisfactory management of the disease.
Fungicides are available for some foliar diseases.
Leaf spots and lesions on indoor plants more often are
caused by environmental factors, insect or arthropod
injury, phytotoxic aerosols or other factors. They rarely
are caused by pathogens in the indoor home
environment. Table 2 summarizes a few foliar
diseases that may be encountered in
houseplants, along with their causes,
symptoms, plants affected and corresponding
management strategies.

13
Table 2. Common foliar diseases of houseplants and management strategies
Disease Pathogen Symptoms and Plants Affected Management Strategies

Anthracnose, Fungi; species of Symptoms of anthracnose vary from one host Remove and discard diseased
Colletotrichum Colletotrichum to another. On some hosts, circular lesions are leaves. Reduce frequency of
leaf spot tan to dark brown, sometimes in the shape misting of leaves. Do not mist
of a bull’s-eye; these lesions can coalesce leaves when symptoms are present.
to form larger areas of dead tissue on some Increase ventilation around plants.
hosts; on other hosts, lesions are angular and Chlorothalonil is reportedly an
restricted to areas between leaf veins. Under effective fungicide that can protect
wet conditions, a pinkish ooze might be visible leaves from infection by anthracnose-
in the lesions. causing fungi.
Nearly all foliage plants are susceptible
to infection by a fungus that causes an
anthracnose disease

Other Various fungi Lesions vary by pathogen and host. Remove and discard diseased
leaf spots: leaves. Reduce frequency of misting
of leaves. Do not mist leaves when
- Alternaria leaf spot
symptoms are present. Increase
- Cercospora ventilation around plants. Fungicides
- Fusarium are available.
- Ascochyta blight
- Bipolaris leaf spot
- many others

Powdery Mildew Oidium species White to grayish dusty growth that initially Remove and discard diseased leaves
can rub off leaf surfaces is visible. Stems and in an enclosed plastic bag to minimize
buds also can be affected. Severe infections spread of the pathogen. Reduce
can cause shoot deformation. Indoor plants frequency of misting of leaves. Do
affected by this genus are primarily African not mist leaves when symptoms
violet and grape ivy. are present. Increase ventilation
and reduce relative humidity around
plants. Fungicides are available.

Grey Mold, Fungus, Lesions are initially small and water-soaked, Since this disease develops only
Botrytis Blight Botrytis cinerea and they expand to cover large areas that later under high-moisture conditions, it
darken from light brown to nearly black. Under typically is not observed in most
high humidity, characteristic fuzzy grayish-tan indoor home environments. Prevention
dusty growth of the fungus becomes apparent includes keeping foliage dry. Under
on the dead and dying plant tissue. favorable environmental conditions,
fungicides are available to protect
Plants affected include Lipstick vine, grape
foliage from infection. Infected foliage
ivy, Dracaena, ferns, English ivy, Peperomia
should be removed and discarded
species, African violet, many other foliage and
immediately in an enclosed plastic
flowering plants
bag to minimize the spread of the
pathogen.

14
Table 2. Common foliar diseases of houseplants and management strategies (continued)
Disease Pathogen Symptoms and Plants Affected Management Strategies

Bacterial Bacteria, such as Symptoms vary by pathogen and host. Pin- Remove and discard diseased
Leaf Spots Erwinia carotovora point, water-soaked, irregularly shaped material. If infection is systemic, plant
and Xanthomonas angular lesions that may or may not have a should be discarded. Keep foliage
campestris yellow margin can expand into larger blotches dry and avoid causing wounds. No
of rotting tissue. chemical treatments are available for
bacterial diseases of houseplants.
Streptomycin usually does not offer
satisfactory control for most bacterial
diseases on houseplants, and
phytoxicity, when using streptomycin
sulfate at 200 parts per million, has
been reported on some hosts.

Nematode Microscopic plant Stunted, unthrifty appearance of foliage; Examine roots for small lesions or
diseases of roots parasitic nematodes wilting; discoloration resembling nutrient galls. Discard infected material. For
deficiency some plant hosts, new plants free
from root-infecting nematodes can be
started from cuttings.

Virus diseases Few viruses are Symptoms are variable, depending on the Purchase disease-free plant material.
serious problems virus, and they include ringspot, mosaic, Virus diseases in plants cannot be
in an indoor plant, stunting, leaf crinkling and color breaking. cured, but they seldom cause serious
if present, they harm on houseplants. To prevent
These diseases are rare on indoor
are incurable and potential spread, consider discarding
houseplants. Some viruses, such as Tobacco
sometimes fatal symptomatic plants or quarantining
Mosaic Virus (TMV), can be mechanically
them to see if the plant recovers. To
transmitted by contaminated hands and tools.
prevent mechanical spread of certain
Other viruses require an insect or arthropod
viruses, wash hands and tools
vector to spread from one plant to another.
frequently and refrain from smoking
when handling plants. Manage insect
and arthropod pests.

15
 Always read
and follow the
manufacturer’s
directions
before using
the product
and always
Using Fungicides to Manage Plant use the labeled

Diseases Caused by Fungi

rates. Mention
of any trade
Several effective fungicides are available for managing names does
diseases on indoor plants, but they differ in how they not imply
are used, where they can be used, on what plants they endorsement
can be used safely and for which diseases they control. of one
Most often, the cost of purchasing a fungicide is greater product over
than replacing the plant itself. If choosing a fungicide, another nor
be sure it is labeled for the intended use and be sure to discrimination
read, understand and follow the instructions on the label against any
to avoid causing harm to the plant, the environment or product
yourself. by North
Dakota State
Compounds such as chlorothalonil (Fungonil), University
tebuconazole (for example, Bayer 3-in-1 Insect, Disease Extension
and Mite Control), neem oil (Triact 70), thiophanate Service or the
methyl (Cleary’s 3336), potassium bicarbonate authors.
(GreenCure) and fungicidal soap are available for use
as fungicides on indoor houseplants.

Photo credits for Insects and Arthropod Pests

Aphids (Whitney Cranshaw, Colorado State University, Bugwood.org)
Adult fungus gnat (Johny N. Dell, Bugwood.org)
Mealybugs (U.S. National Collection of Scale Insects Photographs Archive, USDA ARS, Bugwood.org)
Close up of longtailed mealybug (David Cappaert, Michigan State University, Bugwood.org)
Scale insects (U.S. National Collection of Scale Insects Photographs Archive, USDA ARS, Bugwood.org)
Armored scale insects (U.S. National Collection of Scale Insects Photographs Archive, USDA ARS, Bugwood.org)
Springtails (Susan Ellis, Bugwood.org)
Adult and nymph - western flower thrips (Jack T. Reed, Mississippi State University, Bugwood.org)
Close up of western flower thrips thrips (Jack T. Reed, Mississippi State University, Bugwood.org)
Whiteflies (Clemson University – USDA Cooperative Extension Slider Series, Bugwood.org)
Close up of adult greenhouse whitefly (David Cappaert, Michigan State University, Bugwood.org)
Twospotted spider mites (David Cappaert, Michigan State University, Bugwood.org)
Close up of twospotted spider mite (David Cappaert, Michigan State University, Bugwood.org)
Stippling injury to leaves caused by spider mites (Whitney Cranshaw, Colorado State University, Bugwood.org)

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