The Pests of Jade Plants: How to Identify and Get Rid of Them

Jade plants are a popular indoor succulent because of their unique appearance and ease of care. Like other plants, they can be susceptible to pests that can damage and even kill them if not dealt with promptly. In this article, we'll take a look at some of the most common pests of jade plants, how to identify them, and what you can do to get rid of them.

1. Mealybugs

Mealybugs are small white insects that look like tiny balls of cotton. They feed on the sap of jade plants, causing them to wilt and eventually die. You can identify mealybugs by the white, cotton-like substance they leave behind on the plant's leaves and stems.

To get rid of mealybugs, you can use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to wipe them away. You can also try spraying the plant with a solution of water and dish soap or using neem oil.

Mealybugs on a Jade Plant

2. Spider Mites

Spider mites are tiny pests that are difficult to see with the naked eye. They spin webs on the underside of jade plant leaves and feed on their sap, causing the leaves to turn yellow and fall off. You can identify spider mites by their webbing and the fine, yellow speckling on the tops of leaves.

To get rid of spider mites, you can spray the plant with water to dislodge them from the leaves. You can also use insecticidal soap or neem oil to kill them.

Spider Mites on a Jade Plant

3. Scale Insects

Scale insects are oval-shaped and vary in color from brown to black. They attach themselves to the stems and leaves of jade plants and suck the sap out of them. This causes the leaves to turn yellow and fall off. You can identify scale insects by their hard, shell-like covering.

To get rid of scale insects, you can use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to wipe them away. You can also use insecticidal soap or neem oil to kill them.

Scale Insects on a Jade Plant

4. Fungus Gnats

Fungus gnats are small, black flies that live in the soil of jade plants. They lay their eggs in the soil, and the larvae feed on the roots of the plant. This can cause the plant to wilt and eventually die. You can identify fungus gnats by the small, black flies that fly around the plant.

To get rid of fungus gnats, you can let the soil dry out between waterings to kill the larvae. You can also use sticky traps to catch the adult gnats.

Fungus Gnats on a Jade Plant

5. Aphids

Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that come in a variety of colors, including green, yellow, and black. They feed on the sap of jade plants, causing them to wilt and eventually die. You can identify aphids by the small, pear-shaped insects that cluster on the leaves of the plant.

To get rid of aphids, you can use a strong jet of water to knock them off the plant. You can also use insecticidal soap or neem oil to kill them.

Aphids on a Jade Plant

6.

If you notice any signs of pest infestation on your jade plant, it's important to act quickly to prevent further damage. By identifying the pest and using the appropriate treatment method, you can keep your jade plant healthy and thriving for years to come.

jade plants, pest control, houseplant care, indoor plants, gardening