Herself's Houseplants

People who spray houseplants with pesticide sprays may be at a greater risk of developing brain tumors, scientists claim today. The researchers were unable to identify which products and ingredients were specifically to blame, but raised the alarm because the sprays are so common and recommended for use indoors and every week.

So what’s a person to do?

If you have aphids, mealy bugs or thrips use oil sprayed on the plant. You can find orange oil in the organic section of your nursery or plain vegetable oil will work.

If you have black flies, re-pot the plant and either water less or give the plant more light.

If you have scale, spider mites or mealy bug, wash it off with soap and water, then wipe down affected areas with rubbing alcohol.

See also:
Common house plant pests

More information:

Pesticides on houseplants may pose tumor risk