Identify, prevent, and eliminate the most common cannabis pests Pests are one of the biggest threats to your cannabis grow. Early identification is critical — catching an infestation early can save your entire crop. Starting with HLVD-tested, pest-free clones from a reputable nursery gives you a clean start.
Spider Mites
Signs: Tiny dots on leaf undersides, stippling damage (tiny white/yellow dots on top of leaves), fine webbing in severe cases.Treatment: Neem oil, insecticidal soap, predatory mites (Phytoseiulus persimilis). Remove heavily infested leaves. Maintain humidity above 60% (mites thrive in dry conditions).Prevention: Inspect new plants before introducing to garden. Quarantine new clones for 48 hours.
Thrips
Signs: Silver/bronze streaks on leaves, tiny black dots (frass), small elongated insects visible with magnification.Treatment: Spinosad-based sprays, sticky traps, predatory insects (Orius insidiosus). Apply in evening when thrips are less active.Prevention: Blue sticky traps for monitoring. Keep grow area clean.
Aphids
Signs: Clusters of small soft-bodied insects on stems and new growth. Sticky honeydew residue. Curling leaves.Treatment: Blast with water, ladybugs, insecticidal soap, neem oil. For severe infestations, pyrethrin-based sprays.Prevention: Inspect plants daily. Companion planting with basil and marigolds outdoors.
Fungus Gnats
Signs: Small black flies hovering around soil surface. Larvae feed on roots, causing slow growth and wilting.Treatment: Let soil dry between waterings. Mosquito bits (BTI) in water. Yellow sticky traps. Top-dress with sand or diatomaceous earth.Prevention: Avoid overwatering. Good drainage. Don't leave standing water.
Powdery Mildew
Signs: White/grey powdery coating on leaves, especially in humid, poorly ventilated conditions.Treatment: Potassium bicarbonate spray, milk spray (40% milk/60% water), remove affected leaves. Improve airflow immediately.Prevention: Maintain airflow, avoid leaf wetness, defoliate dense canopy. Choose mildew-resistant genetics.
IPM Best Practices
Start clean: Buy pest-free, inspected clones Quarantine: Isolate new plants for 48 hours before introducing to your garden Monitor: Inspect plants daily, especially leaf undersides Prevention first: Proper airflow, humidity, and cleanliness prevent most issues Biological controls: Predatory insects are the safest option for cannabis
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