What's eating my begonia 'cleopatra'?

Begonia 'Cleopatra', a popular star-leaved rhizomatous houseplant, is most troubled by mealybugs. Its dense rosette growth and rhizome base create hidden spots where colonies build undetected. Fungus gnats also target its moist soil. Inspect the plant centre and rhizomes carefully, and let the top of the mix dry between waterings.

White fluffy clusters deep in the leaf rosette and along surface rhizomes; plant weakens with honeydew build-up. Use a fine-tipped alcohol swab to reach into the rosette; follow with neem oil spray over the whole plant weekly for a month.

Larvae damage rhizomes and fine roots, causing wilting; clouds of tiny adults rise from the soil when disturbed. Allow the compost surface to dry; apply a Bti drench; use yellow sticky traps near the pot.

Pale speckling on the mapley, attractively marked leaves reduces their ornamental appeal. Wipe leaves with a damp cloth; spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil every five to seven days and raise humidity.