How are your houseplants doing? If the holidays were a rush and you only had time to water them quickly between travel and activities, then this is a good time to pause and spend some time with them. Unfortunately, when you do you may discover an insect pest infestation. Take some time this week to check plants closely for any signs of an insect infestation. Things to look for include shiny spots or areas on leaves or any leaf discoloration. Pests that cause leaf discoloration include spider mites and thrips. Pests that will leave shiny spots on leaves (but minimal leaf discoloration) are mealybugs and scale insects.
Personally, mealybugs are my nemesis this winter. See this article.
For information on all the common houseplant insect pests please see our Care and How-to
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