Pest identification
What's eating my agave angustifolia?
Mealybugs
Signs: White powdery or cottony masses deep in the leaf cluster; leaves yellow and growth slows
Control: Treat with alcohol-soaked swabs; apply neem oil drench to the rosette base; repeat weekly for a month
Scale insects
Signs: Raised tan or brown waxy bumps on leaves and stems; honeydew attracts sooty mold
Control: Scrape off with a soft brush, dab with isopropyl alcohol, then apply horticultural oil spray
Spider mites
Signs: Fine webbing and pale yellow stippling on leaf surfaces, especially in warm dry air
Control: Boost humidity, wipe down leaves, and apply insecticidal soap or neem oil; repeat as needed
Keep agave angustifolia pest-free
Healthy plants resist pests best. Get the basics right:
Agave angustifolia pests — FAQ
What is eating my agave angustifolia?
Agave angustifolia grown as a houseplant is most commonly troubled by mealybugs and scale insects hiding among its narrow, densely-packed leaves. Spider mites can also colonise the tips in low humidity. Monthly inspection and prompt treatment with isopropyl alcohol and neem oil keeps this vigorous agave healthy.
How do I get rid of mealybugs on agave angustifolia?
White powdery or cottony masses deep in the leaf cluster; leaves yellow and growth slows Treat with alcohol-soaked swabs; apply neem oil drench to the rosette base; repeat weekly for a month
How do I get rid of scale insects on agave angustifolia?
Raised tan or brown waxy bumps on leaves and stems; honeydew attracts sooty mold Scrape off with a soft brush, dab with isopropyl alcohol, then apply horticultural oil spray
How do I get rid of spider mites on agave angustifolia?
Fine webbing and pale yellow stippling on leaf surfaces, especially in warm dry air Boost humidity, wipe down leaves, and apply insecticidal soap or neem oil; repeat as needed