If you have plants, you most likely have come across a pest or two. While you cannot truly prevent pests from feeding on your collection, there are a few tips to lower the chances.
A regular wiping down of leaves with neem oil, soap, and water mixture. Neem oil is a deterrent and together with soap can act as an insecticide for mild pest problems. While wiping down your leaves, inspect them to make sure no pests are in sight.
A higher humidity can deter some pests like spider mites and scale who thrive in dry environments.
Bottom watering your plants can help avoid fungus gnat larvae being laid in the top 2” of your soil.
Isolate infected plants from your healthy ones. Pests will spread quickly. Also important to deal with the pests as soon as you notice you have a problem.
Homemade neem oil recipe for a small spray bottle:
3-5 drops of neem oil that is 100% pure and cold-pressed
2-4 drops of gentle liquid soap (I use dr bronner's pure castile soap)
Fill the bottle with warm water to help melt the neem oil
You can spray directly on your plant then use a cloth to wipe down the leaves. Just a warning - neem oil has a very potent smell.
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