Dealing with pests on your Monsteras

Monstera deliciosa, also known as the Swiss cheese plant, is a popular houseplant with large, glossy, and perforated leaves. It is native to Central America and thrives in warm and humid conditions. There are also several varieties of Monstera deliciosa that have different patterns or colors on their leaves, such as Monstera Thai Constellation and Monstera Albo. These varieties are highly sought after by plant lovers and collectors, but they can also be more susceptible to pest infestations. In this article, we will discuss some of the common pests that affect Monstera deliciosa, Thai Constellation, and Albo and how to control them effectively.

 

Some of the most common pests that can infest Monstera deliciosa, Thai Constellation, and Albo are:

- Spider mites: These are tiny, spider-like creatures that suck the sap from the leaves, causing yellow spots, webbing, and leaf drop. They are usually found on the undersides of the leaves and can multiply rapidly in dry and dusty conditions. Spider mites can be especially harmful to Monstera Thai Constellation and Monstera Albo, as they can damage their unique variegation and reduce their value.

- Mealybugs: These are small, white, cottony insects that feed on the plant's juices, causing yellowing, wilting, and honeydew secretion. They are often found in clusters on the stems, leaf axils, and leaf veins. They can also transmit viruses and fungal diseases to the plant. Mealybugs can be difficult to eradicate from Monstera deliciosa, Thai Constellation, and Albo, as they can hide in the crevices of their perforated leaves.

- Scale insects: These are hard-shelled insects that attach themselves to the plant's stems and leaves and suck the sap. They look like brown or beige bumps and can cause yellowing, stunting, and leaf drop. They can also secrete honeydew that attracts ants and sooty mold. Scale insects can be hard to spot on Monstera deliciosa, Thai Constellation, and Albo, as they can blend in with their leaf patterns or colors.

- Thrips: These are slender, winged insects that pierce the plant's tissues and feed on the sap. They cause silver or brown streaks, distorted leaves, and reduced growth. They can also spread viral diseases to the plant. Thrips can be more prevalent on Monstera deliciosa, Thai Constellation, and Albo during the flowering season, as they are attracted to their fragrant blooms.

- Aphids: These are soft-bodied insects that come in various colors and sizes. They cluster on the new growth and buds of the plant and suck the sap. They cause curling, yellowing, and deformation of the leaves. They also secrete honeydew that attracts ants and sooty mold. Aphids can be more common on Monstera deliciosa, Thai Constellation, and Albo during the spring or summer months, as they feed on their tender shoots.

- Fungus gnats: These are small, black flies that lay eggs in moist soil. The larvae feed on the roots and organic matter in the soil, causing root rot, wilting, and stunted growth. The adults fly around the plant and can be a nuisance. Fungus gnats can be more problematic for Monstera deliciosa,

Thai Constellation, and Albo if they are overwatered or kept in poorly drained soil.

How to Control Pests on Monstera Deliciosa,

Thai Constellation and Albo

- Physical removal: If you notice a few pests on your plant,

you can try to remove them manually by wiping them off with a damp cloth or cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol. You can also use a strong spray of water to dislodge them from the plant. This method works best for larger pests such as mealybugs,thrips, or scale insects. Also you could use some leaf wipe as well

- Biological control: Another option is to use natural enemies or predators of the pests to control them. For example,

you can introduce beneficial nematodes to your soil to kill fungus gnat larvae or thrips pupae. You can also release ladybugs or lacewings to your plant to feed on aphids or mealybugs. However,

you should only use this method if you have not recently applied any pesticides to your plant as they can harm the beneficial insects as well.

- Organic pesticides: If physical or biological methods are not enough,

you can resort to using organic pesticides that are less toxic than synthetic ones. For example,

you can use insecticidal soap or neem oil to spray your plant and kill soft-bodied pests such as aphids or mealybugs. You can also use pyrethrins or pyrethrum-based products to kill flying pests such as fungus gnats or thrips. Our favorite although more pricey is doktor doom.

However,

you should always follow the label instructions carefully and avoid spraying when the sun is too strong or when the plant is stressed.

- Systemic pesticides: If none of the above methods work for you, like many

you may need to use systemic pesticides that are absorbed by the plant's roots and circulate throughout its tissues. These pesticides can kill pests that feed on the sap of the plant such as spider mites or scale insects. One example of a systemic pesticide is Bonide Systemic Granules Insect Control, it is my favorite.

Bonide provides protection for up to 8 weeks. However, you should be aware that systemic pesticides can also affect beneficial insects and pollinators that visit your plant, be sure to follow the label and read it well. This stuff is the bomb especially for larger collection. 

 

 Monstera deliciosa, Thai Constellation, and Albo are beautiful and easy-to-grow houseplants that can be affected by various pests. To control them, you should first try to prevent them by keeping your plant healthy and inspecting it regularly. If you notice any pests, you can try to remove them physically or use biological or organic methods to kill them. If these methods fail, you can use systemic pesticides as a last resort. By following these steps, you can keep your Monstera deliciosa, Thai Constellation, and Albo pest-free and enjoy their stunning foliage for years to come.