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Once the plant is away from any others, thoroughly clean the area it was in with soapy water to get rid of any pests which may be left behind.<\/p>\n
For \u201cextra precaution\u201d, Britons can also sterilise the area by using rubbing alcohol, making sure not to touch their eyes whilst doing so.<\/p>\n
The experts added: \u201cNow wash the infested plant with insecticidal soap, or you can use a mild liquid soap, as soap can kill houseplant bugs on contact.<\/p>\n
\u201cSome contain degreasers and detergents that can harm sensitive plants, therefore be careful with the type you choose. Try dabbing the soap lightly on your plant before washing it fully to double-check it won\u2019t cause any harm.<\/p>\n
Don’t miss… <\/strong> We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you’ve consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info<\/p>\n \u201cUse a cotton swab soaked in alcohol and dab it on the bugs to kill and remove them from the plant.<\/p>\n \u201cAlso, wash the pot and plant tray with soapy water too as houseplant pests can easily hide under the rim of the pot or tray without you even noticing.\u201d<\/p>\n Washing-up liquid can be purchased for as little as 50p from several supermarkets, which will last\u00a0<\/p>\n Mealybugs, which are one of the most common pests, are often mistaken for fungus or mould because it can look like cotton or white powder. They tend to cluster on the stems and leaf joints.<\/p>\n According to experts at Essential Living, damage usually includes stunted or \u201cdeformed growth\u201d of the houseplant.<\/p>\n Aphids can be spotted because they tend to leave a sticky residue on the plant and will result in deformed plant growth.<\/p>\n The pros noted: \u201cThey easily go unnoticed until the houseplant is completely infested, as you will begin to see fat, small, juicy bugs clustering on new growth and flower buds ranging from different colours including green, brown, blue, orange, red or black.\u201d<\/p>\n
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