What's eating my aglaonema prosperity?

Aglaonema 'Prosperity', a compact cultivar often grown in lower-light offices, faces the most risk from mealybugs hiding in its dense leaf axils and from spider mites in heated indoor environments. Its tolerance of neglect does not extend to pests — early treatment with neem oil prevents colonies from taking hold.

Cottony white masses tucked into crowded leaf bases; honeydew drips onto lower foliage causing mould. Use alcohol-soaked cotton swab on each colony; follow with whole-plant neem oil spray weekly for a month.

Stippled, dull foliage and hair-thin webbing on leaf undersides; lower leaves may yellow and fall. Wipe leaves, raise humidity above 50%, and spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil every seven days.

Hard brownish lumps on stems; persistent sap loss causes general decline and yellowing. Scrape off with a soft brush and apply horticultural oil spray; repeat after 14 days.