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What Are The Little Bugs on My Money Plant

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Updated: July 25, 2023

If you are a proud owner of a money plant, also known as Devil’s Ivy or Pothos, you may have noticed some tiny bugs crawling on its leaves. These little creatures can be quite frustrating, as they not only make the plant look unsightly but can also cause damage if left unchecked. In this article, we will explore what these bugs are, why they are attracted to your money plant, and how to get rid of them.

Identifying the Bugs

Before we delve into the specifics of these insects, it is important to properly identify them. The most common bugs that infest money plants are aphids and spider mites.

Aphids

Aphids are small insects that feed on the sap of plants. They come in various colors, including green, black, brown, or yellow. You may notice clusters of these tiny bugs on the undersides of the leaves or along the stems. If left untreated, aphids can multiply rapidly and cause significant damage to your money plant.

Spider Mites

Spider mites are another common pest that can infest money plants. These pests are not actually insects but rather arachnids. They are so tiny that they can be difficult to spot with the naked eye. Spider mites spin fine webs on the leaves of the plant, which can give them away. If you notice tiny webbing on your money plant, it is likely infested with spider mites.

Why Are They Attracted to Your Money Plant?

Both aphids and spider mites are attracted to money plants for various reasons:

  1. Sap: Money plants produce sap, which is a valuable food source for these pests. The sap is rich in nutrients and provides them with the sustenance they need to survive and reproduce.

  2. Moisture: Money plants prefer humid conditions, making them an ideal environment for these pests. The moisture in the air and the leaves provides a suitable habitat for the bugs to thrive.

  3. Indoor Environment: Money plants are often kept indoors, where they are protected from harsh weather conditions. Unfortunately, this also means that pests like aphids and spider mites can easily infest them without natural predators to keep their populations in check.

Getting Rid of the Bugs

Now that we have identified the bugs and understood why they are attracted to money plants, let’s explore some effective methods to get rid of them:

1. Pruning

If you notice a few leaves infested with bugs, it is best to remove them immediately. Pruning affected leaves not only prevents further spread of the infestation but also helps improve the overall health of the plant. Make sure to disinfect your pruning tools after each use to avoid transferring any pests or diseases to other parts of the plant.

2. Watering

Maintaining proper watering practices is crucial in controlling pest infestations. Overwatering can create a favorable environment for bugs to breed, while underwatering can stress the plant, making it more susceptible to infestations. Ensure that you water your money plant appropriately and allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.

3. Natural Predators

Introducing natural predators into your indoor garden can help control aphids and spider mites. Ladybugs are known to feed on aphids, while predatory mites can be effective against spider mites. You can purchase these beneficial insects from gardening stores and release them onto your money plant.

4. Insecticidal Soap

Insecticidal soap is a safe and effective option for controlling bug infestations on money plants. It works by suffocating the pests and disrupting their cell membranes. Be sure to choose a soap specifically formulated for use on plants and follow the instructions on the label carefully.

5. Neem Oil

Neem oil is a natural insecticide derived from the neem tree. It has both insecticidal and repellent properties, making it an excellent choice for controlling pests on your money plant. Dilute neem oil with water according to the instructions, and spray it onto the affected areas of the plant. Repeat this process every few weeks until the infestation is under control.

6. Isolate Infested Plants

If you have multiple indoor plants, it is important to isolate any infested money plants to prevent the bugs from spreading to other plants. Quarantine the affected plant in a separate area until you have successfully eradicated the infestation.

Preventing Future Infestations

Prevention is always better than cure, so here are some tips to help you prevent future bug infestations on your money plant:

  • Regularly inspect your plant for signs of pests.
  • Keep your money plant clean by wiping its leaves with a damp cloth.
  • Avoid overfertilizing your plant, as excessive nutrients can attract pests.
  • Maintain good air circulation around your money plant by positioning it away from drafts and crowded spaces.
  • Quarantine any new plants before introducing them into your indoor garden to ensure they are bug-free.

By following these preventive measures and promptly addressing any pest issues that arise, you can keep your money plant healthy and free from tiny bugs.

In conclusion, the little bugs crawling on your money plant are most likely aphids or spider mites. They are attracted to your plant due to its sap, moisture, and indoor environment. To get rid of them, you can prune affected leaves, control watering, introduce natural predators, use insecticidal soap or neem oil, and isolate infested plants. Additionally, implementing preventive measures can help you avoid future infestations and maintain a healthy money plant.

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