Houseplants bring life and beauty into our homes, but did you know that some can also attract unwanted guests like pests, snakes, and insects? As a long-time plant enthusiast, I’ve learned through personal experience which plants are more likely to invite these nuisances. In this article, I will share my insights on 10 houseplants that attract pests, snakes, and insects, and how to manage them effectively.

1. Fiddle Leaf Fig (Ficus lyrata)

The fiddle leaf fig is a popular choice for its large, glossy leaves and striking appearance. However, it is also notorious for attracting pests like spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects.

Personal Experience: I once found my fiddle leaf fig infested with spider mites. The leaves started to look dull, and there were tiny webs all over. I had to use insecticidal soap and isolate the plant for a few weeks to get rid of the infestation.

Prevention Tips:

• Regularly wipe down the leaves with a damp cloth.
• Inspect for pests weekly.
• Use insecticidal soap if you notice any pests.

2. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)

Spider plants are hardy and easy to care for, making them a common houseplant. Unfortunately, they can also attract fungus gnats, especially if the soil is kept too moist.

Personal Experience: My spider plant started to attract fungus gnats because I was overwatering it. These tiny black flies were everywhere! I had to let the soil dry out more between waterings and used sticky traps to control the gnats.

Prevention Tips:

• Allow the soil to dry between waterings.
• Use well-draining soil.
• Employ sticky traps if gnats appear.

3. Monstera Deliciosa

Monstera deliciosa, also known as the Swiss cheese plant, is another trendy houseplant. However, its large leaves and aerial roots can harbor pests like scale insects and thrips.

Personal Experience: My Monstera once had a scale insect problem. These small, brown insects were attached to the stems, causing the plant to weaken. Neem oil sprays helped control the infestation.

Prevention Tips:

• Check leaves and stems regularly for pests.
• Use neem oil or insecticidal soap as needed.
• Keep the plant in a well-ventilated area.

4. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)

Peace lilies are loved for their beautiful white flowers and air-purifying qualities. However, they are prone to attracting pests such as aphids and mites.

Personal Experience: I noticed aphids on my peace lily one summer. The new leaves were curling, and there were sticky residues on the plant. I had to spray it with a mixture of water and dish soap to eliminate the aphids.

Prevention Tips:

• Inspect new growth frequently.
• Use a mild soap solution to treat pests.
• Avoid overwatering to prevent pest attraction.

5. English Ivy (Hedera helix)

English ivy is known for its lush, trailing vines, but it can also attract a variety of pests, including spider mites, aphids, and whiteflies.

Personal Experience: I had an English ivy plant that became a magnet for spider mites. The leaves began to yellow and drop. Increasing humidity around the plant and regular misting helped keep the mites at bay.

Prevention Tips:

• Maintain high humidity levels.
• Mist the plant regularly.
• Use insecticidal soap if pests are present.

6. Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)

Boston ferns are admired for their feathery fronds, but they can attract pests like spider mites and mealybugs, especially in dry conditions.

Personal Experience: My Boston fern was infested with mealybugs during a particularly dry winter. The white, cottony bugs were everywhere. I treated the plant with rubbing alcohol on a cotton swab and increased the humidity.

Prevention Tips:

• Keep the humidity high.
• Inspect for pests regularly.
• Use rubbing alcohol or insecticidal soap for treatment.

7. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)

Pothos is a low-maintenance plant, but it can attract pests like spider mites, especially in low humidity environments.

Personal Experience: My pothos developed a spider mite problem when I placed it near a drafty window. The leaves had tiny yellow spots, and webs were visible. Moving the plant to a more humid area and wiping the leaves regularly helped.

Prevention Tips:

• Maintain adequate humidity.
• Wipe leaves with a damp cloth.
• Use insecticidal soap if needed.

8. Aloe Vera

Aloe vera is prized for its medicinal properties, but it can attract pests like aphids and mealybugs, particularly if overwatered.

Personal Experience: I overwatered my aloe vera, and it became infested with mealybugs. I had to repot the plant with fresh soil and reduce watering frequency.

Prevention Tips:

• Avoid overwatering.
• Use well-draining soil.
• Treat pests with insecticidal soap.

9. Rubber Plant (Ficus elastica)

The rubber plant is another favorite for its large, glossy leaves. However, it can attract pests like scale insects and spider mites.

Personal Experience: My rubber plant had a scale infestation. The leaves were sticky from honeydew, and the plant looked unhealthy. I used neem oil and wiped the leaves to remove the scales.

Prevention Tips:

• Inspect leaves regularly.
• Wipe leaves to remove pests.
• Use neem oil or insecticidal soap.

10. Calathea

Calatheas are known for their striking foliage, but they are also prone to pests like spider mites and thrips, especially in dry environments.

Personal Experience: My calathea had a thrip problem during a dry spell. The leaves had silvery streaks, and the plant looked sickly. Increasing the humidity and using insecticidal soap helped resolve the issue.

Prevention Tips:

• Maintain high humidity.
• Check for pests regularly.
• Treat with insecticidal soap if needed.

While it is less common, some houseplants can attract snakes, especially if they are kept outside part of the time or in areas where snakes are prevalent. Snakes are often attracted to plants that provide cover and food sources like insects.

Personal Experience: I once found a small garden snake in my potted palm tree that I had moved indoors from the patio. It was seeking shelter and possibly hunting for insects around the plant.

Prevention Tips:

• Inspect plants thoroughly before bringing them indoors.
• Keep the area around houseplants clean and free of debris.
• Use snake repellents if you live in an area with a high snake population.

1. Regular Inspection: Check your plants regularly for signs of pests. Early detection can prevent a minor issue from becoming a major infestation.

2. Proper Watering: Overwatering can create an environment conducive to pests. Ensure that your plants are watered appropriately.

3. Good Air Circulation: Proper air circulation helps prevent the buildup of moisture, which can attract pests.

4. Isolation: When bringing new plants home, isolate them for a few weeks to ensure they are not harboring pests before placing them with other plants.

5. Cleanliness: Keep the area around your plants clean. Fallen leaves and debris can attract pests.

6. Natural Predators: Encourage natural predators like ladybugs and predatory mites that can help control pest populations.

While houseplants can sometimes attract pests, snakes, and insects, this doesn’t mean you should shy away from having them in your home. With regular care and attention, you can enjoy the beauty and benefits of your houseplants without the hassle of unwanted guests. By following the prevention tips and managing infestations promptly, you can keep your indoor garden healthy and pest-free.

Having houseplants that attract pests, snakes, and insects can be a challenge, but with the right knowledge and care, you can minimize these issues and enjoy a thriving indoor garden. Remember, the key is regular monitoring and maintaining optimal conditions for your plants. Happy gardening!