What's eating my dracaena laxissima?

Dracaena laxissima, a graceful narrow-leaved tropical houseplant, is most commonly troubled by spider mites, which thrive in low humidity indoors. Mealybugs hide in leaf axils and along the stems. Scale insects can encrust the canes. Fungus gnats emerge from wet compost. Maintaining moderate humidity and avoiding overwatering prevents most problems.

Fine webbing on leaves and between stems; pale stippling and yellowing across leaf surfaces; leaves may dry at the tips and drop Mist the foliage and increase humidity; wipe leaves with a damp cloth; apply neem oil or insecticidal soap spray every 5–7 days for 3 weeks

White powdery oval insects in leaf axils and along stems; honeydew and sooty mould on lower leaves Dab colonies with isopropyl alcohol; treat whole plant with neem oil spray; use a systemic insecticide drench for persistent or widespread infestations

Brown or tan fixed bumps on stems and leaf midribs; gradual yellowing and stunted growth; sticky honeydew drip Scrape off physically with a toothbrush and soapy water; apply neem oil; treat with imidacloprid for entrenched infestations

Larvae damage fine roots in overwatered compost; adult gnats are a nuisance and indicate wet growing conditions Reduce watering and allow compost to partially dry between waterings; apply Bti drench or Steinernema feltiae nematodes; hang yellow sticky traps