4 Common Errors That Lead to Pest Problems in Houseplants—and How to Prevent Them

Tending to houseplants, whether indoors or outdoors, can be a calming and almost meditative activity. With so much of our time spent looking at screens, observing the growth of a small seedling into a thriving plant can feel deeply rewarding and personal. This is one reason why houseplants remain so beloved. Susan Nock, the owner of Thistle by Susan Nock Garden Design, understands this connection perfectly. 

“I’ve been working as a professional gardener for nearly a decade, but my love for gardens goes back to my childhood,” she shares. “My parents and grandparents always surrounded me with stunning gardens. When I got my first apartment, I filled its small balcony with potted plants, and with every move, my garden space expanded.”

However, one of the most persistent challenges in maintaining a healthy plant is protecting it from pest infestations. Sometimes, despite our best efforts, we make errors that attract unwanted insects to our houseplants. Below, an expert outlines four common mistakes to avoid in order to prevent infestations, along with practical tips to keep bugs at bay and care for your plant if they do appear.

You're Not Inspecting Your Plant at the Store

Just like with any purchase, it’s essential to thoroughly examine items before adding them to your cart. When Nock browses the plant section, she ensures the plants she selects appear robust and healthy in the store.

“I meticulously check for any signs of pests to avoid introducing them into my home,” she explains. If you spot concerning indicators, such as insects in the soil or yellowing leaves, notify a store employee immediately so they can address the issue promptly. 

You're Not Buying the Right Plant for Your Home

Plants flourish when placed in environments that match their specific requirements, so it’s important to research which types of greenery are ideal for your current living conditions. Do you have a dim, dry corner? Or perhaps an area that receives plenty of moisture and direct sunlight?

Additionally, consider how well your chosen plant coexists with others. Selecting a plant that fits well with your space will help it stay healthy and reduce the likelihood of infestations. “I group plants with similar light requirements together to ensure they thrive,” Nock explains. “The more you understand your plant’s needs—like light and water—the better you can nurture it.”

You're Not Giving Your Plants Enough Attention

While water and sunlight are essential, your plant needs more than just the basics to prosper. Monitor the soil’s moisture levels and check if any leaves require pruning. For indoor plants, regularly dust the leaves, and for outdoor plants, consider adding fertilizer.

These small tasks contribute to the peaceful routine of plant care, but they also serve another purpose. “I carefully examine both the top and underside of leaves to detect any infestations early,” Nock shares. 

You're Not Treating an Infestation Quickly

Dealing with a plant infestation is often part of the journey of plant ownership, so there’s no need to be overly critical if it occurs. Once you notice an infestation, immediately isolate the affected plant to prevent it from spreading. Nock suggests researching the specific type of infestation but mentions that she typically uses a mix of water and insecticidal soap to treat the issue. 

“I also clean the leaves and stems to eliminate pests and apply a spray made of water and insecticidal soap or a neem oil solution,” she explains. Ensure you treat both the top and underside of the leaves and remove any damaged ones to be thorough.  

“Keep the plant quarantined for approximately a month, as pests often reappear, and you may need to reapply treatment,” Nock advises. Rest assured, this period will pass as your plants continue to thrive.