Got a houseplant query? Our expert is here to help. This week, how to deal with tiny, sap-sucking pests

What’s the problem?
I’ve tried everything to get rid of these pests but they just keep coming back.

Diagnosis
These tiny, sap-sucking insects reproduce rapidly and often hide under leaves and within new growth. If they keep returning, it’s likely that some eggs or larvae are surviving treatments, there are hidden thrips in soil or crevices, or your approach needs a more aggressive, multi-step routine to fully eradicate them.