What Are The Little Bugs on My Resurrection Plant

If you have a resurrection plant and have noticed little bugs crawling on its surface, you may be wondering what they are and if they pose any harm to your plant. Resurrection plants, also known as Selaginella lepidophylla, are unique plants that can survive in extreme conditions, including drought and dehydration. These plants have the ability to “resurrect” themselves once water is available again, hence their name. While they are hardy plants, they can still attract insects. In this article, we will explore the common bugs that may be found on your resurrection plant and how to deal with them.

Common Bugs Found on Resurrection Plants

1. Aphids: Aphids are tiny insects that are commonly found on many types of plants. They are usually green or black and can be identified by their pear-shaped bodies. Aphids feed on the sap of plants, which can cause damage to the leaves and stems of resurrection plants. If you notice aphids on your resurrection plant, you can try using insecticidal soap or neem oil to get rid of them.

2. Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny arachnids that can infest resurrection plants. They are usually red or brown and can be difficult to see with the naked eye. Spider mites feed on the plant’s sap, which can cause discoloration and wilting of the leaves. To control spider mites, you can use insecticidal soap or a homemade solution of water and dish soap sprayed onto the affected areas.

3. Mealybugs: Mealybugs are small, soft-bodied insects that are covered in a white, waxy substance. They often appear as small cotton-like clusters on the leaves and stems of plants. Mealybugs feed on the sap of resurrection plants and can cause stunted growth and yellowing of the leaves. To get rid of mealybugs, you can use rubbing alcohol or a mixture of water and dish soap applied directly to the insects.

4. Scale Insects: Scale insects are small, oval-shaped insects that can be found on the leaves and stems of resurrection plants. They are usually brown or black and have a protective shell-like covering. Scale insects feed on the sap of plants, which can cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves. To control scale insects, you can use insecticidal soap or neem oil applied directly to the affected areas.

Preventing and Treating Bug Infestations

While it is common for resurrection plants to attract bugs, there are several steps you can take to prevent and treat infestations:

1. Regularly Inspect Your Plant

Make it a habit to regularly inspect your resurrection plant for any signs of bug activity. Look for discoloration, wilting, or unusual growth patterns on the leaves and stems. Catching an infestation early can help prevent further damage to your plant.

2. Keep Your Plant Clean

Maintaining good hygiene practices is essential in preventing bug infestations. Remove any dead or decaying plant material from around your resurrection plant as they can attract pests. Additionally, clean the leaves of your plant regularly with a gentle spray of water to remove any dust or debris.

3. Provide Optimal Growing Conditions

Resurrection plants thrive in dry conditions but need occasional watering to come back to life after dehydration. However, overwatering can create a favorable environment for bugs to thrive. Make sure to provide your plant with well-draining soil and only water when the top layer feels dry to the touch.

4. Use Natural Remedies

If you notice bugs on your resurrection plant, try using natural remedies before resorting to chemical insecticides. Insecticidal soaps, neem oil, and homemade solutions with water and dish soap can effectively control many common pests without harming the plant. Test these remedies on a small area of the plant first to ensure it does not cause any adverse effects.

5. Seek Professional Help

If you have tried various methods to control bug infestations on your resurrection plant but are still struggling, it may be time to seek professional help. A local garden center or plant expert can provide guidance and recommend appropriate treatments for your specific situation.

Conclusion

While the bugs crawling on your resurrection plant may be unwelcome visitors, they can be managed with proper care and attention. Regular inspection, maintaining cleanliness, providing optimal growing conditions, and using natural remedies can help prevent and treat bug infestations effectively. By taking these steps, you can ensure that your resurrection plant remains healthy and thrives for years to come.