Question
I have a hanging basket of house plants purchased 3 months ago.  Among the plants is a wandering jew.  I left town for 3 days and when I returned I found very small black matter and partial plant matter on the floor under my plants.  As I inspected the plant I find there are cluster of the small black things on the plants and most of the plant is eaten (in three days!).  The size of the black things are smaller than a pin head to as large as a tiny pea.  I have never seen such an attack on any of my house plants.  I live in the Phoenix area and my plants live indoors, have proper light, low humidity and 77 degree temps 24/7.  Should I throw the entire plant out?  I removed it from the house and put it outdoors in the shade this morning and sprayed it with a water with dish soap.  Any input would be much appreciated.

Answer
Hi Paula,

There are no common houseplant pests that will devour most of a plant within three days, or even 30 days, for that matter. I am sure that these pests are something that is native to your area and somehow got inside your home. Perhaps they infested the plant if it was outside at some point.

Unless the plant is of particular value to you, I suggest discarding it. As an alternative, spray the plant with a strong hose spray to knock them loose, then spray the plant thoroughly with a soap spray.

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