Most Common Devils Ivy Plant Pests:
Identification and Treatment Guide

Devil’s Ivy (Epipremnum aureum) is a popular houseplant known for its lush green foliage and easy-to-care nature. However, like any other plant, it is susceptible to pests that can damage its health and beauty. In this article, we will discuss the most common devil’s ivy plant pests, how to identify them, and the best treatment options.

Spider Mites

Spider mites are tiny pests that suck the sap from the leaves of the devil’s ivy plant. They are difficult to see with the naked eye but can be identified by fine webbing on the leaves. The leaves will appear speckled, yellowed, or bronzed due to spider mite infestation.

Treatment

To treat spider mites on your devil’s ivy plant, you can:

• Isolate the affected plant
• Spray the plant with water to knock off the mites
• Apply neem oil or insecticidal soap to the plant every five to seven days until the infestation is gone

Mealybugs

Mealybugs are small, white, cotton-like insects that feed on the sap of devil’s ivy leaves. They can cause yellowing and wilting of leaves and may also attract ants.

Treatment

To treat mealybugs on your devil’s ivy plant, you can:

• Wipe the insects off with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol
• Apply neem oil or insecticidal soap to the plant every five to seven days until the infestation is gone
• Use sticky traps to capture adult mealybugs

Scale Insects

Scale insects look like small brown bumps on the stems and leaves of devil’s ivy plants. They secrete a sticky substance called honeydew which attracts ants and causes leaf yellowing.

Treatment

To treat scale insects on your devil’s ivy plant, you can:

• Use a soft-bristled brush to remove the scales
• Apply rubbing alcohol to the affected areas with a cotton swab
• Apply neem oil or insecticidal soap to the plant every five to seven days until the infestation is gone

Fungus Gnats

Fungus gnats are small flies that feed on the roots of devil’s ivy plants. They are attracted to moist soil and can cause root rot and stunted growth.

Treatment

To treat fungus gnats on your devil’s ivy plant, you can:

• Allow the soil to dry out between watering
• Use yellow sticky traps to capture adult gnats
• Apply a soil drench containing Bacillus thuringiensis var. israelensis (Bti) to kill gnat larvae

FAQ

How do I prevent pests from attacking my devil’s ivy plant?

The best way to prevent pests is by keeping your devil’s ivy plant healthy. Provide adequate light, water, and nutrients, and avoid overwatering or underwatering. You can also inspect your plants regularly for signs of pests and isolate any affected plants immediately.

Can I use homemade remedies to treat pests on my devil’s ivy plant?

Yes, there are several homemade remedies that you can use to treat pest infestations on your devil’s ivy plant. These include diluted dish soap, garlic spray, and cinnamon powder. However, it is essential to test these remedies on a small area of the plant first to ensure that they do not cause any damage.

What should I do if my devil’s ivy plant is heavily infested with pests?

If your devil’s ivy plant is heavily infested with pests, it may be difficult to save it. In such cases, it is best to dispose of the plant and start fresh with a new one. Remember to isolate any new plants to prevent the spread of pests.