It is true, some of your houseplants may need a good bath. What do I mean? Well, many plants are insect infected causing leaves to turn yellow, little holes to occur in the leaves and stems or the plant could even die from insect infestation. If you want your plants to look as good as these you may need to give it a good bath.

Insects occur when plants aren't grown under ideal conditions, including poor humidity, lack of or too much light, or improper watering. When buying a houseplant you should always find out how to care for it as different plants require different care. This is something that doesn't take long, but it may save your plants' life and also your greenthumb.

Giving your houseplant a bath

Common insects can be controlled with regular bathings or washings once a month. Mix a little dish soap with water and wash leaves and stems of the plant. Make sure to wash the underside of the leaves as well as the top. Insecticidal soaps formulated for houseplants also work well.

Rubbing alcohol can be used to get rid of some insects also. Use a cotton swab to dab the alcohol on the insect, wait several minutes and then wash off the plant as alcohol can dry out a plant. Be sure to apply the alcohol only to certain spots of the plant. Also, rinsing with water within five minutes of application should prevent damage to the plant. NEVER apply rubbing alcohol to a plants growing points.

Some common insects found on houseplants

MEALY BUGS

These insects produce a white cottony mass around their body. They distort the new tissue and leaves due to sucking on them. Mealy bugs are common on cactus plants, succulent plants and many flowering plants.

SPIDER MITES

These are microscopic spiders that feed by sucking on the underside of leaves and often spin fine webs between leaves and limbs. Spider mites are so small that the only way to determine that a plant is infested with them is to shake the leaf over a white piece of paper.

SCALES

These are brown hard-shelled insects that are about the size of a pin head. They suck the sap from plants, which ruins the new plant tissue.

Proper care of houseplants can increase your enjoyment and satisfaction as well as save you money.

For more information on pest control click here.