What's eating my begonia microsperma?

Begonia microsperma, a compact tropical species kept indoors, is most susceptible to mealybugs probing its delicate stems and to fungus gnats breeding in consistently damp potting mix. Spider mites emerge when air is too dry. Its small leaf size makes early pest detection trickier, so inspect with a loupe weekly.

White mealy clusters at stem junctions; plant grows slowly and leaves may yellow. Dab with alcohol-soaked cotton swabs; spray neem oil solution weekly until no signs remain.

Root-feeding larvae cause wilting in small plants; adults are visible hovering at soil level. Let topsoil dry between waterings; apply Bti (e.g., Gnatrol) as a soil drench and use yellow sticky traps.

Tiny pale dots across leaf surfaces; webbing visible on undersides under magnification. Mist leaves, raise humidity, and treat with insecticidal soap spray every 5–7 days for 3 weeks.