Pest identification
What's eating my begonia 'u491'?
Mealybugs
Signs: White fluffy masses in leaf axils and along stems; weakened growth; sooty mould on honeydew
Control: Alcohol swab spot treatment; neem oil or insecticidal soap whole-plant spray; repeat weekly until all colonies are gone
Spider mites
Signs: Stippled, pale foliage; fine webbing; leaves may bronze and drop in dry rooms
Control: Improve humidity; insecticidal soap or neem oil every 5–7 days; wipe leaf undersides to remove eggs
Thrips
Signs: Silvery scratched or streaked leaf surfaces; distorted new growth; dark frass on foliage
Control: Remove affected leaves; apply spinosad or neem oil; hang sticky traps near the plant to monitor
Keep begonia 'u491' pest-free
Healthy plants resist pests best. Get the basics right:
Begonia 'U491' pests — FAQ
What is eating my begonia 'u491'?
Begonia 'U491' is a species-hybrid houseplant susceptible to the same indoor pests as most begonias. Mealybugs are the likeliest problem, followed by spider mites in dry indoor environments. Thrips can also scar foliage. Early detection through weekly inspection and prompt treatment with neem oil or insecticidal soap keeps plants healthy.
How do I get rid of mealybugs on begonia 'u491'?
White fluffy masses in leaf axils and along stems; weakened growth; sooty mould on honeydew Alcohol swab spot treatment; neem oil or insecticidal soap whole-plant spray; repeat weekly until all colonies are gone
How do I get rid of spider mites on begonia 'u491'?
Stippled, pale foliage; fine webbing; leaves may bronze and drop in dry rooms Improve humidity; insecticidal soap or neem oil every 5–7 days; wipe leaf undersides to remove eggs
How do I get rid of thrips on begonia 'u491'?
Silvery scratched or streaked leaf surfaces; distorted new growth; dark frass on foliage Remove affected leaves; apply spinosad or neem oil; hang sticky traps near the plant to monitor