Practical methods for killing and controlling insects on indoor potted flowers

Potted flowers overwintered indoors often suffer outbreaks of sap-sucking pests because of high indoor temperatures and a shady environment. Here are several simple manual pest-control methods:

① Aphids: Aphids are usually found on tender parts. Tilt the pot and place it under a tap, using a fine stream of water to wash the infested parts. This method not only removes the pests but also washes dust off the leaf surface, making the flowers fresher and more colorful.

② Scale insects: Gently pick off the insects with a bamboo needle, matchstick or similar object, or wipe them off gently with a soft cloth or soft brush.

③ Whiteflies: Wipe the nymphs off the undersides of the leaves with a soft cloth. Flying adults can be caught with a sticky trap: prepare a wooden board, paint it yellow or cover it with glossy yellow paper, and coat its surface with sticky oil. Hold the board beside the plant and shake the plant so the whiteflies fly onto the yellow board and get stuck to death (whiteflies are attracted to yellow).

④ Spider mites: Spider mites are small and generally damage the undersides of leaves. Affected leaves show small yellow spots on the upper surface and red mites on the underside. If there are few mites, crush them by hand; if there are many, remove the leaves and burn them.