Snake plants are sturdy plants that thrive in a variety of conditions. Snake plants, however, can have pests that are difficult to deal with. It is unclear why pests are attracted to snake plants. Additionally, how can we deal with these pests on our snake plant? Here’s how we can find out.
Snake plant pests include scales, gnats, spider mites, aphids, and whiteflies. Plants infested with snake insects suffer from overwatering, excessive humidity, and poor ventilation. Keeping pests at bay requires regular attention to overwatering, neem-based organic pest repellent, and regular inspection to avoid overwatering.
With the right treatment, you can get rid of those stubborn pests and get your plants back to health. Discover how you can save your snake plant’s life from these pests by reading on.
Bugs Commonly Found on Snake Plants
Snake plants attract the following bugs:
- Scales
- Fungus Gnats
- Spider mites
- Whiteflies
- Aphids
What Is the Reason for the Bugs on My Snake Plant?
It is possible for a pest infestation to be caused by numerous factors.
Here are a few of the major ones:
- High humidity
- Overwatering
- Poor Ventilation
High Humidity
Snake plants are susceptible to high humidity levels. Snake plants thrive in average humidity levels, and if you keep them at a high humidity level, then they should be monitored regularly.Pests thrive in a moist environment, as their bodies require moisture; they cannot cope with very hot weather, either. These plants and areas are naturally attracted to pests in high humidity.If snake plants are kept in high humidity for a long period of time, the leaves may yellow or wilt, and pests will have the perfect conditions to live on and slowly establish a home.
Overwatering
Pests love overwatered plants. The soil suffers when you overwater your plants. They do not have a chance to dry out. Snake plants do not like to stay in water and can also cause root rot.
Pests thrive in such conditions. As a result of overwatering issues and pest infestation, the plant will suffer, leaving the owner with no choice but to remove them completely.
In addition to allowing the plant to dry out between waterings, the other cultural conditions must be balanced as well. During watering, the drainage system also plays an important role. In a pot without proper drainage, the water will not drain out completely, causing the soil to remain soggy.
Poor Ventilation
Snake plants thrive in aerated soil and need good airflow around them to stay healthy. The plants can attract pests if they are kept in close quarters or in an area without adequate airflow.
The soil is conducive to fungus, bacteria, and root rot. In addition, moisture will not evaporate quickly, and as a result, pests can thrive there.
How Do You Get Rid of Bugs on Them?
Different methods can be used to treat snake plants that have been infested with pests. You should take immediate action to control the pest infestation.Pests can be treated chemically or organically; the choice is yours.
Isolate & Prune
Keeping infected plants alone is the first thing you should do. Dispose of all damaged leaves and infested branches.
Apply Plant-based Miticides
There are plant-based miticides available that do not harm plants and are effective at controlling pests as well. It is always a good idea to test the solution on a leaf before spraying it on the entire plant.
Here are a few effective sprays you can choose from:
- Pyrethrum: This natural substance targets the insect’s nervous system and kills it.
- Cinnamate: This pesticide is derived from cinnamon oil and is safe to use on plants. It is effective on all stages of pests. To get rid of all annoying pests, apply this solution every three days over a couple of weeks.
- Neem oil can be used as a treatment for a wide variety of insects. It is derived from neem seeds, and it also works as an insect repellent. For complete relief, you’ll need to reapply neem oil continuously.
- Rosemary oil is an effective treatment for controlling plant pests. Spray rosemary oil on the plant with water diluted with rosemary oil. It is not harmful to humans or plants.
Shower Your Plant
These pests can be defeated by hosing down the plant with room temperature water, especially washing the undersides of the leaves.
Make sure that you drain the excess water from the plant when you water it. At least six hours of indirect sunlight each day should be provided to the plant.
Cut Your Losses
You are already going through a difficult time. Even after trying everything possible, suppose those pests are still there.
Then you might have to rip out the infested plants and start again. You should disinfect the area, clean the plant thoroughly and get rid of the infested plants.
Tips to Prevent Bugs on Snake Plant
- Maintaining a healthy environment will prevent the snake plant from becoming infested with pests.
- Humidity and moisture are ideal conditions for pests. Don’t drown the plant, but make sure it stays hydrated.
- Mist not around the plant. To keep pests at bay, keep the humidity level of the plant at about 40%.
- You should spray miticides periodically on the plants to build up their immunity against pests.
- As a preventive measure, spray neem oil onto the skin.
- Snake plants should not be overwatered or overfertilized. This makes the plant vulnerable and attracts pests, as well as supporting the growth of fungus.
- It is important to keep the leaves dry between cleanings.