What's eating my agave attenuata?

Agave attenuata (Foxtail Agave), the soft-leafed agave without terminal spines, is more pest-prone than its spined relatives. Mealybugs are the most frequent indoor problem. Scale insects and aphids also target the softer foliage. Outdoors, the agave snout weevil is a serious threat in warm climates. Slugs may nibble young leaves in damp garden beds.

Cottony white clusters at leaf bases and along the stem; honeydew and sooty mould; yellowing and leaf drop Remove with alcohol swabs; spray entire plant with neem oil or insecticidal soap every 7 days; repeat for four weeks minimum

Brown or tan waxy bumps on leaves and stems; sticky leaf surface; weakened growth Scrape off with a soft brush; treat with isopropyl alcohol; apply neem oil spray monthly

Sudden unexplained collapse of the rosette; mushy, rotting centre; larvae in the core tissue Destroy infested plants promptly; apply preventive imidacloprid drench to soil around healthy plants in affected areas