What's eating my andinum staghorn fern?

Andinum Staghorn Fern (Platycerium andinum) faces the same indoor pest pressures as other staghorns — scale insects are the biggest threat, burrowing under the frond surface. Mealybugs nest at frond bases. Spider mites attack in dry conditions. Inspect antler fronds and shield fronds separately, as pests hide in both zones.

Flat or rounded waxy bumps on the antler and shield fronds; fronds yellow, weaken, and may develop dark patches. Dab each scale with a neem-oil-soaked swab or scrape off carefully; apply neem oil spray every 7–10 days for a month.

Fluffy white wax deposits at the junctions of fronds and mounting board; sticky secretions and subsequent sooty mould. Spot-treat colonies with 70% isopropyl alcohol; follow with weekly neem oil applications until no new colonies appear.

Tiny pale spots and fine webbing on the velvety antler fronds, especially during warm, dry periods indoors. Raise humidity around the mount, wipe fronds gently with a damp cloth, and spray insecticidal soap every 5–7 days.