Pest identification
What's eating my begonia 'zip code'?
Mealybugs
Signs: Fluffy white clusters in leaf axils and on stems; stunted soft growth; honeydew deposits
Control: Remove with alcohol swabs; treat whole plant with neem oil solution or insecticidal soap; isolate until pest-free
Spider mites
Signs: Pale, stippled leaves; fine webbing on undersides; leaf drop in severe cases
Control: Increase humidity; apply insecticidal soap or neem oil every 5–7 days for three cycles
Whitefly
Signs: Tiny white-winged insects under leaves; yellowing foliage; sticky honeydew
Control: Yellow sticky traps; spray undersides repeatedly with insecticidal soap at 4–5 day intervals
Keep begonia 'zip code' pest-free
Healthy plants resist pests best. Get the basics right:
Begonia 'Zip Code' pests — FAQ
What is eating my begonia 'zip code'?
Begonia 'Zip Code' shares the typical indoor begonia pest profile. Mealybugs are the most common problem, followed by spider mites in low-humidity conditions. Whitefly can appear if the plant is moved near other infested houseplants. Regular inspection, good airflow, and avoiding overhead watering limit most risk.
How do I get rid of mealybugs on begonia 'zip code'?
Fluffy white clusters in leaf axils and on stems; stunted soft growth; honeydew deposits Remove with alcohol swabs; treat whole plant with neem oil solution or insecticidal soap; isolate until pest-free
How do I get rid of spider mites on begonia 'zip code'?
Pale, stippled leaves; fine webbing on undersides; leaf drop in severe cases Increase humidity; apply insecticidal soap or neem oil every 5–7 days for three cycles
How do I get rid of whitefly on begonia 'zip code'?
Tiny white-winged insects under leaves; yellowing foliage; sticky honeydew Yellow sticky traps; spray undersides repeatedly with insecticidal soap at 4–5 day intervals