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Tiny Green Pests on Schefflera: Neem Oil Recommended

A Boston resident bought a schefflera (umbrella plant) a month ago. After initial health, top leaves browned. Fruit flies on nearby peppers were treated with neem. Now tiny green insects and webbing appear on top leaves.

Close-up of tiny green pests on schefflera

Close-up of pests on schefflera leaves

Assessment

The pests are likely spider mites or aphids. Washing insects off plants is rarely effective long-term.

Treatment Recommendations

Neem oil: Continue with neem—effective, organic, safe for people/pets
Alternatives: Pyrethrum or rotenone (also organic)
Brown leaves: Remove severely damaged leaves; they won't recover

Organic Product Sources

Planet Natural (free catalog)
Gardens Alive (free catalog)

Monitor weekly and retreat as needed. Good air circulation helps prevent recurrence.

Pests: Fungus Gnats in Dieffenbachia: Dry Soil Solution; Tiny Green Pests on Schefflera: Neem Oil Recommended; Red Velvet Mites on Roses: Organic Pyrethrin/Rotenone Control; Severe Balcony Pest Infestation: Pyrethrin/Rotenone Rescue; Beginner's Guide to Outdoor Cactus Planting in the South; Cymbidium Flower Pests: Sheen, Eaten Edges, Clear Goo, White Deposits—Slugs, Sap, and Scale; Managing Persistent Pests on Microsorum diversifolium (Kangaroo Fern); Garden Pests and Heat Stress: Yellowing Corn, Pepper Leaves, and Holey Cantaloupe; Organic Gardening Tips: Simple, Effective, Earth-Friendly; Garden Pest Management Without Pesticides

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