What's eating my crocodile fern?

Crocodile fern (Microsorum musifolium) is most often affected by spider mites when humidity drops too low indoors. Scale insects can colonize the broad, textured fronds, hiding in the ridge patterns that give the plant its name. Mealybugs occasionally appear at the frond bases. High humidity, regular misting, and monthly inspections keep this fern's distinctive fronds undamaged.

Pale yellow stippling or bronzing across the broad frond surfaces; fine webbing near the petioles; loss of the vibrant green color. Raise humidity with a pebble tray or humidifier; mist fronds regularly; spray insecticidal soap or neem oil and repeat weekly.

Small brown or cream bumps visible on frond midribs and undersides, blending in with the textured surface; sticky honeydew. Inspect fronds carefully given the ridged surface; scrape off manually; apply horticultural oil spray; follow up in 2 weeks.

White cottony masses at frond bases and crown; reduced new growth; honeydew and possible sooty mold. Swab colonies with rubbing alcohol; apply neem oil spray; isolate the plant and inspect weekly until completely clear.