Do Ferns Have Bugs That Bite Them

Question

My father has ferns in his front yard and when we have BBQs there are small bugs that bite. The bite looks like a mosquito bite. What can we do to prevent bugs besides take the ferns out? Thank you!

Answer 1

Fern pests usually include caterpillars, mealybugs, false spider mites, scales and thrips. While I cannot say for certain which insect is causing the problem, you can treat the plant with neem oil to take care of most all of them. As for the biting, I can only suggest that you place some insect repellent candles or something similar in the area to keep the bugs from bothering you.