Hoya Aphid Infestation: Prune & Spray for Control

Your Hoya (wax plant) has a serious aphid infestation—small, yellowish, mobile insects clustering on stems, leaves, and flowers. Aphids reproduce rapidly; immediate treatment prevents spread and permanent damage.

Step-by-Step Eradication

1. Prune infested growth: Remove heavily colonized stems/leaves. Discard in sealed bag.
2. Prepare spray: 5 parts water : 1 part rubbing alcohol + 1 tsp liquid dish soap per quart. Mix in spray bottle.
3. Apply thoroughly: Spray entire plant to dripping—leaf undersides, stem crevices, flower clusters, soil surface. Do this outdoors or in shower.
4. Repeat in 7 days: Catch hatchlings. Then monitor weekly.

Why This Works

• Alcohol dissolves aphid waxy coating → dehydration.
• Soap breaks surface tension → better coverage + suffocation.
• Physical removal (pruning + spray force) reduces population instantly.

Ongoing Prevention

• Light: Bright, with some direct sun (east/west window).
• Water: Dry almost completely between waterings.
• Quarantine new plants 2 weeks.
• Inspect weekly with magnifier.

Early, aggressive treatment saves the plant and its fragrant blooms. Don't delay.