How do I Organically Get Rid of Bugs in a House Plant's Soil?

Keep invaders out of your houseplants.

You realize you have bugs in the soil of your houseplants when you water the plants and it causes the bugs to come to the surface of the soil. There are methods to rid your plants of these soil bugs that do not require you to re-pot the plant in new soil. Avoid potentially harmful, chemical insecticides by using an organic method of insect control.

Things You'll Need

• Three percent hydrogen peroxide
• Diatomaceous earth

Instructions

1. Water the plants thoroughly using a solution of water and three percent hydrogen peroxide. Use 1 part hydrogen peroxide to 3 parts water. Hydrogen peroxide is a natural substance that will help kill bugs and release oxygen into the soil. The oxygen will promote healthy root growth.

2. Sprinkle diatomaceous earth onto the surface of the soil and in the pot's saucer. Diatomaceous earth is finely ground fossilized algae and, on a microscopic level, has the ability to lacerate the outer shells of bugs. Bugs that escape to the top or bottom of the pot after the heavy watering with hydrogen peroxide will crawl over the diatomaceous earth. The lacerations the bugs incur will cause them to lose moisture and eventually dehydrate.

3. Place the plants in a well-ventilated area and allow the soil to completely dry out. This will help starve any remaining larva or bugs. Water again just at the point when the leaves start to droop.

Tips & Warnings

• Diatomaceous earth is a fine dust and can cause problems if inhaled. Wear a dust mask to avoid inhalation, especially if you have respiratory issues.

References

• Avian Web: Safe Alternatives for Weed Control, Pesticides / Insecticides - To get rid of garden pests or insects on house plants
• University of Minnesota Extension: Houseplant Insect Control - Springtails
• Wolf Creek Ranch: Food Grade Diatomaceous Earth
• Gardening Know How: Uses For Diatomaceous Earth -- Diatomaceous Earth For Insect Control