What's eating my african violet 'optimara'?

African Violet 'Optimara' is most threatened by cyclamen mites, which cause severe leaf and flower distortion. Mealybugs, thrips, and fungus gnats are also common. The fuzzy leaves trap pests and make treatment harder. Quarantine new plants, water from below, and inspect the crown regularly to catch infestations early.

Stunted, cupped, or brittle new leaves at the crown; flowers distorted or fail to open; distinctive puckered centre Isolate immediately — cyclamen mites spread rapidly; discard severely infested plants; treat mild cases with repeated miticide (bifenazate or abamectin) applications; disinfect tools

White cottony clusters in leaf axils and under leaves; honeydew and sooty mold on foliage Dab with isopropyl alcohol swab; follow with insecticidal soap spray; avoid wetting leaves to prevent spotting

Silver streaks and tiny scars on petals and leaves; distorted flowers with brown edges Remove damaged blooms; apply spinosad or insecticidal soap; use blue sticky traps to monitor population

Larvae feed on roots causing wilting; adults flutter around soil surface Water from below; allow topsoil to dry between waterings; apply Bti drench or use yellow sticky traps