Tiny Yellow Bugs on Houseplants: Aphid Infestation Control

Houseplants Covered in Tiny Yellow Bugs? They're Aphids

Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that cluster on new growth and leaf undersides. They reproduce rapidly, excrete sticky honeydew, and cause leaf curling, yellowing, and plant decline. Soapy water and occasional insecticide sprays often fail due to poor coverage or resistance.

Effective Systemic Treatment

• Imidacloprid granules or drench (e.g., Bonide Systemic Houseplant Insect Control) – applied to soil, taken up by roots, protects for weeks. Kills aphids as they feed.
• Spinosad spray – organic, contact + ingestion. Requires thorough coverage; move plants outdoors to spray in shade.

Supportive Measures

• Rinse plants with strong water spray first to reduce population.
• Remove heavily infested leaves.
• Isolate infested plants.
• Monitor weekly; retreat if needed.

Prevention

• Inspect new plants before bringing indoors.
• Quarantine 2 weeks.
• Yellow sticky traps catch winged adults.

Systemic soil treatment is the most reliable for indoor aphids because it doesn't depend on spray coverage.