Brits are being warned that some popular house plants could be attracting unwanted pests into bedrooms this summer. Experts say the mix of warm weather, higher humidity and less ventilation in bedrooms during August creates the perfect breeding conditions for insects. What’s more, plants that prefer damp soil can make the problem worse by providing pests with food and shelter.

Small bugs seen flying near lamps or crawling on curtains may not always have come from outdoors. In many cases, the source is a plant sitting in a pot just a few feet from the bed. Garden expert Sophie Willoughby said she has noticed more people experiencing pest issues in bedrooms this year. “Ferns, peace lilies, and other tropical houseplants love humidity, but so do a wide range of insects,” she said.

“If you’re watering these plants regularly and not checking under the leaves or the top layer of soil, you could be helping pest colonies grow right beside your bed.”

The pests most often linked to house plants in bedrooms include fungus gnats, spider mites, aphids, mealybugs and thrips. 

Once established, they can spread quickly to other plants, fabrics and even furniture.

1. Ferns - Their constant need for moisture and dense leaves create ideal hiding spots for spider mites, scale insects and other pests.
2. Peace Lilies - Damp soil is the perfect breeding ground for fungus gnats, whose larvae feed on roots and organic matter.
3. Areca Palms - Their fronds collect dust and moisture, attracting pests like mealybugs and thrips, which can then spread to nearby items.

Sleep experts at Bed Sava also warn that many people do not realise they could be encouraging pests. 

“People love the idea of turning their bedrooms into a green, relaxing space,” they said. “But many don’t realise that these popular plants can attract pests like fungus gnats, spider mites and aphids, all of which thrive in warm, damp conditions.”

Experts say soil should be allowed to dry slightly between waterings, leaves should be checked weekly for tiny spots or webbing, and airflow should be improved by keeping windows open or using a fan during the day.

Willoughby advises isolating any new plants before moving them into a bedroom. 

“Always quarantine new plants in a bright room for a few days before moving them in. This gives you time to spot any pests before they spread.”

Experts at Bed Sava also recommend keeping plants a few feet away from beds and swapping moisture-heavy varieties for snake plants or aloe vera during the humid summer months.