Eliminating Aphids on Ficus Before Bringing Indoors

Identifying the Pest

Small, black, elongated insects on new ficus leaves are aphids. They reappear quickly on new growth after manual removal.

Effective Treatment: Rubbing Alcohol

• Fill a spray bottle with rubbing alcohol.
• Spray all leaf surfaces (top and bottom) thoroughly every other day for one week.
• When watering next, mix rubbing alcohol with water 1:1 and apply to the soil to kill any soil-dwelling pests. This won't harm roots.

Advantages

Rubbing alcohol evaporates quickly, leaving no harmful residue, making it safe for indoor use after the plant is brought inside.