Do House Plants Attract Bugs? The Surprising Truth Revealed!
It’s evident that “Happiness blooms where house plants are nurtured,” but do these house plants attract bugs?
The same question stuck in my mind right when I bought a few plants for my home.
During a recent visit, one of my friends mentioned that houseplants could attract bugs.
At first, I was skeptical, but curiosity got the better of me. After some trial and error, I discovered the truth.
So read the article to the end if you plan to get house plants home.
Do House Plants Attract Bugs: Is It Real?
Yes, houseplants can attract bugs, but the likelihood depends on several factors.
These factors range from plant type, maintenance, and the environment.
While houseplants are not inherently “bug magnets,” improper care or certain conditions can create an environment conducive to pests.
Suggested Read: 16 Top Effective Mosquito Repellent Plants Safe For Dogs!
why do indoor plants attract bugs
Here are the common causes why indoor plants attract bugs:
1. Moisture Levels in house plants attract bugs
One of the main reasons to attract bugs is the damp soil. This will attract pests like fungus, gnats, and the springtails.
These bugs thrive in moist conditions where they can lay eggs to nurture.
2. Buildup Organic Matter
Soil rich in organic material can attract pests such as mites and gnats, as it provides a nutrient-rich environment.
3. Decaying Leaves in house plants attract bugs
One thing I learned in my gardening is to remove the decayed leaves as soon as you see them.
Dead or decaying matter is a haven for bugs. These conditions will attract spiders and mites.
4. Warm and Humid Conditions
Sometimes warm and humid conditions will attract bugs like whiteflies and mealy bugs.
They usually thrive in winter when indoor heating is used.
Suggested Read: Does Bleach Kill Spiders? Learn How Effective And Safe It Is
Common Pests in Houseplants
Here are some of the most frequent houseplant bugs and why they show up:
Indoor plants that attract bugs
Before knowing the insights on why house plants attract bugs.
Here are the common indoor plants that attract bugs:
1. Herbs (e.g., Basil, Mint, Parsley)
Mainly the aromatic oils in the herb attract pests like aphids, spider mites, and white flies. Additionally, herbs often have tender leaves that are easy for pests to feed on.
Common Bugs: Aphids, whiteflies, spider mites.
2. Pothos (Devil’s Ivy) in house plants attract bugs
Pothos plants thrive in moist soil, and overwatering can attract fungus gnats. Their large, waxy leaves are also prone to mealybug infestations.
Common Bugs: Mealybugs, scale, spider mites, fungus gnats.
3. Spider Plants
Spider plants can accumulate dust on their leaves, creating a favorable environment for pests. Their high humidity needs can also attract bugs.
Common Bugs: Aphids, whiteflies, spider mites.
4. Fiddle Leaf Fig
These plants require consistent watering and humidity, making them susceptible to overwatering, which attracts gnats. Their large leaves also make great hiding spots for pests.
Common Bugs: Scale, spider mites, fungus gnats.
5. Peace Lily
Peace lilies love moist soil, which can lead to overwatering. A perfect breeding ground for fungus gnats. Their broad leaves can also collect dust, encouraging spider mites.
Common Bugs: Fungus gnats, spider mites.
6. Special Orchids
Orchids thrive in humid environments, that can attract pests like mealybugs and scale. They are also susceptible to bugs that feed on their delicate flowers.
Common Bugs: Mealybugs, scale, aphids.
7. Citrus Plants in house plants attract bugs
Citrus plants release a sweet aroma and often have sticky sap, which can attract pests like aphids and whiteflies.
Common Bugs: Aphids, whiteflies, spider mites.
Suggested Read: How To Get Rid Of Gnats In Plants: 15 Must-Try Hacks!
8. Calatheas (Prayer Plants)
Calatheas need high humidity and consistent moisture, which can create a breeding ground for pests if overwatered.
Common Bugs: Spider mites, fungus gnats.
9. Succulents Varient in-house plants attract bugs
Succulents are typically low-maintenance, but overwatering can cause root rot, attracting fungus gnats. Their crevices can also hide mealybugs and scale.
Common Bugs: Mealybugs, scale, fungus gnats.
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what indoor plants don’t attract bugs?
Here are some indoor plants that don’t attract bugs and are visually appealing:
- Snake Plant (Sansevieria) – Thrives in dry conditions, minimizing pest attraction.
- ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia) – Tough and resistant to pests due to its waxy leaves.
- Aloe Vera – Its thick, spiky leaves discourage bugs.
- Cast-iron Plant (Aspidistra elatior) – Hardy and attracts fewer pests due to its tough leaves.
Suggested Read: How To Get Rid Of Tiny Ants In House: 18 Lightning-Fast Tips
do house plants attract bugs: FAQs
1. do house plants attract bugs to humans?
No! though few houseplants attract bugs they don’t directly target humans.
2. how to prevent bugs on indoor plants?
Prevent bugs by ensuring proper watering, cleaning leaves, and using natural pest deterrents.
3. Do house plants attract spiders?
Houseplants can attract spiders, especially if there are other insects around.
4. Do house plants attract ants?
Ants can be attracted to houseplants if there’s honeydew or aphids present on the plants.
Suggested Read:
- How To Clean A Vacant Apartment Of Pests: 5 Secrets Unveiled
- How To Get Rid Of Ants In The Bathroom: No More Ants Allowed.
