Which Houseplants Attract Pests in the Area?
Decorating your Prairietown, Illinois home with plants is a great way to make it feel a little cozier and closer to nature. However, some plants can attract pests to your home. Here’s what you need to know about houseplants that can attract pests.
The Real Culprit
It’s true that there are a number of houseplants that can attract pests to your home, but the truth of the matter is the soil is what’s really at fault. Or, more accurately, the water you put in the soil. Fungus gnats are most commonly attracted to houseplants, and they love moist soil. The problem is, you need to keep your plants properly watered if you want them to stay healthy.
Because this is the case, one of the best things you can do is let the soil in your plants dry out in between waterings so the fungus gnats aren’t as attracted to them. This works in more than one way because it also helps to prevent overwatering. Watering a plant too much can be just as bad as not doing it too much, so it’s a good idea to try to keep your watering in check even if you don’t have a pest problem.
Houseplants to Avoid
If you find that houseplants in your home are prone to fungus gnats, you’re probably wondering which plants you should avoid to lessen the problem. The truth is, there aren’t really any specific plants that are susceptible to fungus gnats and other pests because the soil is really what attracts those bugs. That being said, it’s a good idea to opt for houseplants that don’t need as much water so you don’t have to worry about the moist soil constantly attracting bugs. Sago palms, orchids, and spider plants are all good examples of this.
Plants like umbrella palm and fiber-optic plants need a lot of water, so you should avoid them. The problem with plants like these is that if you try to let the soil dry out more between waterings, you might end up with a dead or dying plant.
If you’re trying to keep insects out of your home, starting with your houseplants is a good idea. As long as you take care to avoid overwatering and choose plants that don’t need too much water, you should be able to keep your home relatively pest-free. When it is time for professional pest control, you can rely on your local specialists at Imel Pest Control.
