What's eating my angel wing begonia?

Angel Wing Begonia is frequently attacked by mealybugs sheltering in its cane-like stem nodes, and whitefly is a common issue on large specimens. Thrips damage the attractive spotted leaves. Outdoors in summer, aphids colonize soft new growth. Good airflow, regular inspection of stem nodes, and early treatment are the best defenses for this fast-growing cane begonia.

White cottony masses at stem nodes and leaf joints; sticky honeydew; stunted new growth Swab nodes with isopropyl alcohol; spray full plant with neem oil solution; repeat weekly

White flies scatter when foliage is touched; leaves yellow with sticky undersides and sooty mold Hang yellow sticky traps; spray undersides with insecticidal soap every 5 days for 3 weeks

Soft clusters on new shoot tips; leaves curl and distort; sticky honeydew coats lower leaves Knock off with a strong water jet; apply insecticidal soap spray; introduce ladybugs outdoors; repeat as needed

Silver streaks and scarring on spotted leaves; distorted buds and flowers; tiny black frass Remove affected leaves; spray with spinosad weekly; improve airflow; use blue sticky traps to monitor