While hydroponic systems like the Scentalis Vita help reduce many gardening challenges, pests can still find their way indoors. Here’s a quick guide to handling common pests and keeping your indoor garden bug-free.
Common bugs in hydroponics
- Aphids: Tiny insects that sap plant energy, often found on leaves and stems.
- Spider mites: Small red or yellow pests that create a speckled appearance on leaves.
- Whiteflies: White-winged insects that gather under leaves and leave sticky residue.
- Fungus gnats: Small black flies that thrive in moisture and can damage roots.
Effective ways to remove bugs
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Manual removal: Use a damp cloth or small paintbrush to remove bugs from leaves, especially effective for light infestations.
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Neem oil spray: Mix a few drops of neem oil with water and mild soap, then spray on affected areas every few days until bugs are gone. Neem oil disrupts pests without harming plants.
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Insecticidal soap: Spray a diluted solution directly on leaves and stems to dehydrate pests like aphids and spider mites. Test a small area first.
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Hydrogen peroxide: For fungus gnats, add 1 teaspoon of hydrogen peroxide per cup of water to kill larvae in the water tank without harming plants. Repeat weekly as needed.
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Sticky traps: Place yellow sticky traps near your garden to catch flying pests like whiteflies and fungus gnats.
Prevention tips
- Inspect new plants before adding them to your system.
- Clean regularly to remove dust and plant debris.
- Ensure good airflow with a small fan to reduce humidity.
- Check weekly for pests, focusing on new growth and the undersides of leaves.
