Common pests like aphids, spider mites, and mealybugs become more active in the winter, putting your houseplants at risk.

But luckily, protecting your plants from these pests doesn’t require expensive chemicals or complicated treatments, according to an expert.

In fact, there’s an incredibly simple and affordable hack that costs just 25p, which can help you keep your plants healthy and pest-free all season long.

According to the expert at Lottomart, preventing pest problems doesn’t have to be expensive or time-consuming, with a few simple measures going a long way in keeping your plants safe.

They recommend carefully inspecting your plants on a regular basis, especially around new growth and leaf joints, where bugs tend to hide.

Here are some common signs to watch out for:

• Aphids: These pests leave behind a sticky residue and can cause misshapen growth.
• Mealybugs: Often mistaken for mould, these appear as small, cotton-like clusters on stems and leaves.
• Scales: These are tiny, brown or black bumps that weaken your plants by sucking out their sap.
• Spider mites: Look for fine webs on the underside of leaves, often accompanied by yellowing or brown spots.

If you find pests on your plants, the first step is to isolate the affected plant to stop the pests from spreading.

Keep the infested plant in a separate room or at a distance from other plants, and monitor your other greenery closely for the next few weeks.

This precaution will ensure that no hidden pests make their way to your other plants.

Once isolated, thoroughly clean the area where the plant was, using warm, soapy water to eliminate any remaining pests.

For additional disinfection, Lottomart’s expert recommends wiping down surrounding surfaces with rubbing alcohol. Just be sure to avoid contact with your face or eyes while doing so.

One of the simplest and most budget-friendly pest control methods is a washing-up liquid spray, costing as little as 25p. Here’s how you can make and use it:

1. Mix a few drops of mild washing-up liquid with water in a spray bottle.
2. Spray the solution directly onto the infested plant, covering all affected areas, including the undersides of the leaves where pests often hide.
3. After a few minutes, gently wipe the plant with a damp cloth or rinse it off to avoid any residue build-up that could harm the plant.

The soap works by breaking down the outer shells of pests, killing them on contact. However, always test a small area of the plant first to ensure the soap doesn’t cause damage.