Question
Where do root aphids come from?

Answer
Hi Jamie,

Root aphids do not occur with plants that are normally grown indoors as houseplants. I know that pot plants are often grown indoors under lights and are a common source of root aphids, but they are not considered to be houseplants. If that is your issue, I suggest you go to a different forum.

The larvae of these critters live in the soil. Houseplants are normally potted in sterile, soil-less potting mixes so root aphids are not a common problem. As soon as you use soil-based potting mixes, you are asking for pest problems. So the best preventative, is to use sterile peat or coir based potting mixes.

Finally, the larvae require constantly damp decaying organic matter to thrive. Thus, if you keep the upper quarter of the soil very dry, this will help deter the spread of these critters.

I have written detailed articles on indoor plant pests that I will email for free to you (or anyone else) who emails a request to me at [email protected]. I have also written an indoor plant care book in a PDF format that I can sell you if you contact me at my email address.

Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions.

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Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

Visit my website at: A link to HorticulturalHelp.com