Do Ivy Geraniums Attract Bugs?

Mealybugs

• Mealybugs are so tiny that you may not be able to see the individual insects. However, mealybugs gather in grayish-white, cottony clumps that are easily seen on stems and leaves. A few mealybugs are relatively harmless and are often removed with tweezers or a toothpick. More serious infestations can slow plant growth and cause leaf drop, and the sugary substance left behind can cause growth of fungus on the foliage. Heavy infestations may call for use of an insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. Pesticides aren't usually an effective means of controlling mealybugs.

Spider Mites

• Minuscule spider mites are nearly impossible to see with the naked eye, but their filmy white webs are evident on leaves. When infestations are allowed to continue, the ivy geranium suffers and the leaves eventually drop. Proper watering of ivy geranium is critical, as spider mites are attracted to dry conditions. Insecticidal soaps and oils are effective, but pesticides are rarely used, as pesticides kill spider mites' natural predators, including lacewing, pirate bugs and certain types of thrips.

Thrips

• Thrips include a large number of the tiny flying insects. Some types of thrips are handy bugs to have around as they feed on other pests, including spider mites. Other types of thrips are destructive. While telling the difference between good and bad thrips is difficult, it's easy to see the damage caused by bad thrips, including discolored and damaged foliage. Although pesticides aren't a good idea because they kill both good and bad thrips, proper plant care and disposal of wilted flowers is a useful deterrent. Snip off and dispose of damaged foliage.

Healthy Geraniums

• Proper watering is the most important task for maintaining healthy ivy geraniums. Water ivy geranium until water runs through the drainage hole, then let the excess water drain freely. Don't water again until the soil once again feels dry, as soggy soil is even more damaging than bone dry soil. Feed ivy geraniums every other week, using a regular liquid fertilizer. Snip off any yellowing or brown foliage and keep a neat area around the plant, as debris provides hiding places for many pests. Keep ivy geraniums in bright sunlight until the temperature reaches more than 85 degrees Fahrenheit. At that time, the plants benefit from shade during hot afternoons.