How to identify and get rid of plant bugs

Sometimes, no matter what we do in our garden or yard, there's always something looking for a snack on our favorite plants. Plant bugs are one of those pests that can turn your healthy garden into their own private dining room.

These small, often green or brown bugs might not seem like much, but they can be quite the headache for anyone trying to keep their garden or houseplants clean and healthy. While they're not out to harm us, they sure do have an appetite for our plants.

Plant bugs belong to the diverse family Miridae. There are over 2,000 different species of plant bugs in the United States, and they come in a wide variety of sizes and colors.

These true bugs will insert their beaks to pierce into plants and inject a cocktail of enzymes via their saliva. The enzymes turn the plant into a slushie that the plant bugs then suck up. This allows them to get more nutrients than just relying on plant sap. They have been seen feeding on over 300 different plants. Their feeding can cause damage to the plant or its fruit.

But not every species is a plant-guzzling pest. Some plant bugs feed on other pests like aphids or thrips, helping keep your plants healthy.

Despite their diversity, plant hoppers are relatively easy to identify. One of the best ways to determine if you have a plant bug is to look at it from the side. You should notice that the wing tip bends down at a slant.

Additionally, they will have long antennae and no ocelli or tiny eyes between their larger eyes.

How big are plant bugs?

Plant bugs typically grow to be about ⅛ to ¼ inch long.

What other pest looks like a plant bug?

Plant bugs sometimes resemble other true bugs, such as ambush bugs, assassin bugs, or minute pirate bugs.

For plant bugs, look for the slanted/bent wing shape.

Plant bugs are found all over the United States. Look for them underneath leaves, on new growth, or hanging out on stems.

It can be frustrating to see plant bugs damaging your favorite plants. Luckily, there are a few ways to control them without turning to harsh chemicals.

• Control weeds – these can be a safe place for plant bugs to hide and reproduce
• Sticky boards – use these to trap and monitor for plant bugs
• Encourage natural predators – don't spray insecticides that could kill predatory insects
• Remove damaged plants in the fall – Plant bugs will lay their eggs here

If you want to keep plant bugs from invading your home, consider spraying an insect barrier around your property. Check out Pestie's DIY solution for a better way to save on your pest control efforts