How to Handle Indoor Plant Pests
When the weather warms up, windows open, and plants perk up with longer days, summer pests often find a way indoors. Even your houseplants are not safe from tiny invaders that sneak in with fresh air, pets, or new greenery from the garden centre.
At Bloom Culture, we believe healthy plants start with prevention and timely care. Here are the top pests to look for this summer in Calgary, how to spot them, and what you can do to protect your indoor jungle.
Fungus Gnats
The problem: Tiny black flies hovering around your soil. Their larvae feed on organic matter and delicate roots, which can stunt growth in young or stressed plants.
What to watch for: Small flies near soil, overly wet soil, yellowing leaves.
Treatment: Let the soil dry out more between waterings. Use sticky traps to catch adults. Topdress with sand or try neem oil or a biological control like Bacillus thuringiensis (BT) to break the life cycle.
Spider Mites
The problem: These tiny mites love hot, dry air and damage leaves by sucking out plant juices.
What to watch for: Fine webbing under leaves or along stems, yellow speckled leaves, crispy edges.
Treatment: Boost humidity and gently rinse your plant with lukewarm water. Wipe leaves with a soft cloth and treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil every few days until clear.
Aphids
The problem: Small sap-sucking bugs that gather on tender new growth, causing curled or sticky leaves.
What to watch for: Clusters of green, black, or brown insects, deformed leaves, sticky residue, or black mold.
Treatment: Spray a strong stream of water to knock aphids off. Follow up with neem oil or insecticidal soap, covering all leaf surfaces, especially the undersides. Repeat as needed.
Mealybugs
The problem: Soft-bodied pests that look like bits of white cotton on stems and leaf joints.
What to watch for: Fuzzy white clusters, sticky leaves, slowed growth.
Treatment: Dab individual bugs with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol. For larger infestations, follow up with weekly neem oil or insecticidal soap treatments.
Scale Insects
The problem: These shell-like bumps are actually insects attached to your plant, sucking sap and weakening growth.
What to watch for: Raised bumps on stems or leaves, yellowing or wilting leaves, sticky residue nearby.
Treatment: Gently scrape off with your fingernail or a soft brush. Wipe with rubbing alcohol and treat with neem oil. Multiple treatments may be needed.
Prevention Is Key: Keep Pests Away
Quarantine new plants for at least a week before adding them to your collection.
Wipe leaves regularly to remove dust and check for early signs of pests.
Avoid soggy soil by adjusting your watering routine — especially during warm weather.
Inspect your plants after bringing them in from patios or balconies.
Clean pots and saucers every month to remove any hidden eggs or larvae.
Need a Hand?
If pests keep coming back or you are not sure what you are dealing with, we are here to help. Bring a leaf sample in a sealed bag to the studio or send us a clear photo. We will help you identify the culprit and plan a safe, effective treatment for your plants.
