What to Do If You Find Pests on a TAPLAP Stand
Intro:
One of the beautiful things about TAPLAP is how freely we share plants. But with that comes shared responsibility — especially when it comes to pests.
Here’s what to do if you spot bugs on a stand plant, and how we can all help keep our community plants healthy and thriving.
🕵️ How to Spot a Pest Problem
Keep an eye out for these common signs:
White fuzz or cottony spots → likely mealybugs
Sticky residue on leaves → could be aphids or scale
Webbing near new growth → might be spider mites
Curled or yellowing leaves → general distress or hidden pests
If you’re not sure, snap a pic and ask in our TAPLAP group — someone will help you ID it!
🧼 What to Do if You Find One
Don’t panic. Here’s what we recommend:
Isolate the plant – Move it to the side of the stand and leave a note if possible.
Take a photo – Message us or post it in the group so we’re aware and can check in.
Do not bring it home unless you’re comfortable treating it
(These plants are still valuable — they just need TLC.)
🧪 Basic Treatment Tips
If you decide to treat a pest yourself (at home or before donating a plant):
Mealybugs: Dab with a Q-tip dipped in rubbing alcohol
Aphids & spider mites: Spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap
Quarantine new plants for at least a week before bringing them to the stand
🌱 Our Stand Policy
We don’t accept plants with active pest infestations.
We understand that bugs happen — but for the health of the entire community, we ask that everyone double-check their donations before dropping off.
Together, we can keep TAPLAP clean, healthy, and thriving 🌿
💬 Have Questions or Concerns?
Send us a message or drop a post in the TAPLAP Facebook group. We’re here to help — and we appreciate everyone who takes the time to care for our stands.
