What Are The Little Bugs on My Fig Plant

If you are a fig plant owner, you might have noticed some tiny bugs crawling on your plant. Don’t worry; you are not alone in this. Many gardeners and plant enthusiasts have faced the same problem. In this article, we will discuss what these little bugs are, how they affect your fig plant, and what you can do to get rid of them.

What Are These Little Bugs?

The little bugs that you see on your fig plant are most likely fig mites. Fig mites are tiny arachnids that feed on the sap of the fig leaves. They are so small that you might need a magnifying glass to see them clearly. These mites are prevalent in warm and dry climates, which makes them a common pest for fig plants.

Fig mites have a reddish-brown color, and they have eight legs like other arachnids. They are difficult to spot because of their size, but they usually congregate on the underside of the fig leaves.

How Do They Affect Your Fig Plant?

Fig mites can cause significant damage to your fig plant if left untreated. Since they feed on the sap of the leaves, they can cause yellowing or browning of the leaves, which can ultimately lead to leaf drop. If the infestation is severe enough, it can weaken the entire plant and reduce its productivity.

How Can You Get Rid of Them?

Getting rid of fig mites can be challenging since they are so small and hard to spot. However, there are a few things you can do to control their population.

1. Wash Your Plant

The first thing you should do is wash your plant thoroughly with water. Use a strong stream of water to spray the undersides of the leaves where the mites usually congregate. This will help dislodge any mites and wash them away.

2. Prune Infested Leaves

If the infestation is severe, you might need to prune the infested leaves. Use clean pruning shears to remove the affected leaves and dispose of them in a sealed bag. This will prevent the mites from spreading to other parts of the plant.

3. Apply Insecticidal Soap

Another option is to use insecticidal soap, which is a natural and safe way to control fig mites. You can purchase insecticidal soap from a garden center or make your own by mixing liquid dish soap with water. Spray the solution on the leaves, making sure to cover both sides of the leaves thoroughly.

4. Use Neem Oil

Neem oil is another natural remedy that can help control fig mites. Neem oil is derived from the neem tree and has insecticidal properties. Mix neem oil with water and spray it on your fig plant. Neem oil not only kills mites but also acts as a repellent, preventing them from coming back.

FAQ

Can fig mites harm humans?

No, fig mites do not bite humans or transmit any diseases.

Can I eat figs that have been infested with fig mites?

Yes, you can still eat the figs even if they have been infested with fig mites. However, you should wash them thoroughly before consuming them.

Can I prevent fig mites from infesting my fig plant?

Yes, you can prevent fig mites from infesting your plant by maintaining good hygiene practices and keeping your plant healthy. Make sure to water and fertilize your plant regularly, and prune any dead or damaged leaves promptly.

In conclusion, fig mites are a common pest for fig plants, but they can be controlled using natural remedies such as insecticidal soap and neem oil. Remember to maintain good hygiene practices and keep your plant healthy to prevent future infestations. With a little effort, you can keep your fig plant healthy and productive for years to come.