If you’ve noticed your shrubs looking a little worse for wear—leaves curling, odd webbing, or just an overall decline—you might be dealing with more than just a thirsty plant. Central Florida’s warm, humid climate is practically a paradise for all kinds of shrub-loving pests. These tiny invaders often fly under the radar until the damage is already done.
Understanding the most common pests in Orlando, how to spot them early, and how to deal with them effectively can mean the difference between a lush, thriving yard and one that’s constantly struggling. Let’s walk through what you need to know, whether you’re tackling them yourself or looking into pest control services Orlando homeowners trust.
Why Shrub Pests Are a Big Deal in Central Florida
Orlando’s subtropical climate creates a year-round growing season—great for your garden, but unfortunately, just as great for pests. Mild winters don’t do much to knock back aphid populations or other garden pests, and our long, hot summers give them plenty of time to multiply. Shrub pests are especially sneaky. They often target susceptible plants that look fine on the outside but silently suffer on the inside.
These pests don’t just make your garden plants look a little ragged. They can slow or even stop new growth, suck the nutrients out of your plants, attract ants and other insects, and eventually lead to expensive plant replacements if left unchecked.
The Most Common Shrub Pests in Orlando (And How to Spot Them)
Aphids
These tiny, pear-shaped insects love the undersides of leaves and fresh, tender growth. They feed by sucking plant tissue, which causes leaves to curl and distort. One of the sure signs of aphid infestation is sticky residue, known as honeydew, which often attracts fire ants. If you see ants marching along stems or leaves, there’s a good chance aphids are nearby. Some aphid species, like the green peach aphid or melon aphids, are commonly found in South Florida yards.
Spider Mites
You might not see spider mites at first—they’re incredibly small—but their damage is unmistakable. Look for stippled, speckled plant leaves and a fine webbing, especially during hot, dry weather (a staple of Orlando’s spring and summer). Spider mites are part of the tiny insects category that reproduces rapidly in a warm climate.
Whiteflies
Don’t let the name fool you—these aren’t actual flies. Whiteflies are soft-bodied insects, tiny, moth-like bugs that congregate on the underside of leaves. When disturbed, they’ll flutter into the air like a small cloud. Their feeding weakens plants, leading to yellowing leaves and general plant damage. Infestations spike quickly during late summer in Orlando’s humid climate.
Scale Insects
Scale insects are stealthy. They appear as small, waxy or shell-like bumps on stems and leaves, often mistaken for part of the plant. Despite their subtle appearance, they cause major damage by draining nutrients and weakening your shrubs over time.
Mealybugs
These insects look like tiny bits of cotton stuck to your host plants, especially in leaf joints and on new growth. Mealybugs also secrete honeydew, which can lead to sooty mold growth and invite other bugs. They’re particularly fond of many plants with soft tissue and can form large groups if not addressed early.
How These Pests Harm Your Shrubs
Even small insect infestations can have big consequences for your shrubs. Here’s how these bugs quietly undermine plant health and beauty over time:
Stunted Growth:
Pests like aphids and scale insects feed on sap, stealing vital nutrients. This weakens the shrub and slows or completely halts new growth.
Leaf Drop and Discoloration:
Damaged foliage often turns yellow, curls, or falls off prematurely. Over time, this thins out the plant and makes it look unhealthy.
Secondary Infestations (Ants & Mold):
Sticky sap left behind by pests attracts ants and encourages plant diseases. These secondary issues compound the stress on the plant and create a messy, unhealthy environment. Learn more about how to deal with common ant species.
Weakened Immunity:
Persistent pest activity lowers a plant’s natural defenses, making shrubs more vulnerable to plant viruses, fungi, and weather-related stress.
Long-Term Decline or Death:
What begins as minor damage can escalate if multiple pests are present or left untreated. Eventually, the shrub may decline beyond recovery and require costly replacement.
Top Questions Orlando Homeowners Have About Shrub Pests
If you’re noticing changes in your shrubs but aren’t sure what’s causing them, you’re not alone. Many Orlando homeowners have similar questions when pests start creeping in. Here are the most common concerns—and what you really need to know to protect your plants.
How do I know if it’s pests or just plant stress?
Good question. Wilting or yellowing can result from too much water or nutrient issues—but when you notice webbing, sticky residue, natural predators, or insects on the undersides of leaves, it’s a strong indicator of pests.
Will pests kill my shrubs?
In many cases, no, but they can weaken your plants significantly over time. Persistent infestations can lead to major dieback, reduced blooms, and even death if not addressed.
Can I treat pests myself?
Sometimes, light infestations might respond to DIY sprays like neem oil or insecticidal soaps, but for more entrenched problems—especially those involving scale or mites—it’s often best to bring in a pro. The key is catching issues early.
How fast do infestations spread?
Faster than you’d think. Some pests reproduce through asexual reproduction, while others use sexual reproduction, both of which can lead to explosive growth. Female aphids, for example, give birth to live young called nymphs that mature quickly—up to four molts before becoming adult aphids.
Professional Inspection vs. DIY: What’s Worth Your Time
Sure, you can hit the garden center and grab an insecticide—but not all treatments work on all pests. For instance, some pests have protective coatings that render contact sprays useless. And unless you know exactly what you’re dealing with, you might treat the wrong thing entirely.
Professional pest control experts are trained in integrated pest management. They recognize the early signs you might miss: tiny webs, minute color changes, and subtle growth patterns. They also know when to use targeted treatments that minimize harm to beneficial insects (like pollinators) and when a broad-spectrum approach is necessary.
Plus, a trained eye can save you money. Catching a pest management problem early means less control and fewer treatments, and there is no need to replace pricey landscape plants.
At Drake Pest & Lawn Services, we bring years of local expertise to every inspection, with customized solutions tailored to Florida’s unique pest pressures. Our team is committed to safe, efficient methods that protect your landscape and the environment.
How to Prevent Shrub Pests Before They Start
Taking a proactive approach is the most effective way to keep your shrubs pest-free in Central Florida’s bug-friendly climate. Here are five smart strategies to help you stay ahead of the problem:
1.Start Strong in Spring
Early spring is the perfect time to prune away dead or overcrowded branches, which can harbor pests. This also allows more air and light to reach your shrubs, making them less inviting to pests.
2.Monitor for Early Signs
Check your shrubs regularly—especially new growth and leaf undersides—for sticky residue, webbing, or discolored spots. Catching pests early makes treatment easier and reduces the chance of a full-blown infestation.
3.Water and Mulch Wisely
Proper watering keeps plants healthy and less vulnerable to mites and other pests that thrive in dry conditions. Adding mulch also helps regulate soil moisture and temperature, creating a less appealing food source for bugs.
4.Maintain Good Plant Spacing
Crowded plants trap moisture and limit airflow, which creates the perfect environment for pests and fungal issues. Give your shrubs space to breathe, and trim back any overgrowth that could lead to hidden pest havens.
5.Invest in Routine Inspections
Professional pest-monitoring services can spot problems before they escalate. Regular inspections offer peace of mind and help preserve the health and beauty of your garden all year long.
Effective Shrub Pest Treatments That Work in Florida Yards
Florida’s warm, humid climate demands powerful and precise pest control solutions. Here are the treatment options we use and recommend to get real, long-lasting results for your landscape.
Targeted Treatments for Specific Pests
Not every insect responds to the same approach. We use horticultural oils, soaps, and systemic insecticides tailored to the pest type, ensuring maximum effectiveness with minimal plant stress.
Broad-Spectrum Options When Necessary
Broad-spectrum sprays can offer fast relief in cases of widespread infestations or multiple pests. While they’re more aggressive, we apply them strategically to minimize impact on natural enemies and other plants.
Eco-Friendly and Family-Safe Solutions
We offer eco-friendly methods designed for safety around kids, pets, and pollinators. These products may take slightly longer to show results but provide peace of mind and protection.
Fast-Acting Results with Lasting Protection
Most treatments begin working within days, depending on pest type and infestation level. You’ll see signs of recovery—like new growth and reduced pest activity—within the first week or two.
Expert Guidance and Ongoing Care
Every treatment plan comes with clear post-service instructions to help your shrubs bounce back quickly. We also offer follow-up inspections and recommendations to prevent future problems before they start.
Choosing the Right Pest Control Partner
Not all pest control companies are created equal—especially when it comes to protecting your ornamental shrubs. To get the best results, you need a team that understands the unique challenges of West Palm Beach, Orlando, and the rest of the Sunshine State.
Look for Specialized Experience: Choose a company that works specifically with ornamental plants, not just general pests. Shrubs like ligustrum, viburnum, and azaleas need specialized care beyond standard pest control.
Verify Proper Licensing and Certifications: Always make sure your pest control provider is fully licensed in Florida. This ensures they’re trained in your landscape’s safe, legal, and effective treatment methods.
Ask About Local Pest Knowledge: Florida pests behave differently than those in other regions, and control methods must reflect that. A local office understands how to treat species that thrive in Orlando’s humidity and heat.
Check for Preventive Service Options: The best partners don’t just treat problems—they help you prevent them. Look for companies offering ongoing monitoring or routine inspections to prevent pests from returning.
Evaluate Communication and Follow-Up Care: A reliable pest control provider will explain what to expect before, during, and after treatment. They should also provide follow-up visits and advice to support long-term plant health.
Protect Your Shrubs with Help from Drake Pest Orlando
Don’t let pests quietly ruin your landscape—get expert protection tailored to Florida’s unique conditions. At Drake Pest Orlando, we specialize in treating ornamental shrubs with proven, eco-friendly pest control solutions. Contact us today for a free consultation and keep your yard healthy, beautiful, and pest-free year-round.
Brandon is the President of Drake Lawn and Pest Control in Orlando, FL . He has over 30 years experience in the Orlando Pest Control Industry. He attributes his achievements to living by these rules: continuous training and education, providing honest work and striving for the pursuit of perfect service.
