What's eating my ficus microcarpa?

Ficus microcarpa (indoors) is most seriously threatened by scale insects and spider mites. Thrips, mealybugs, and fungus gnats also commonly attack, especially in low-humidity indoor conditions. Regular leaf inspection and correct watering are your first line of defense against this plant's wide range of indoor pest issues.

Sticky honeydew, sooty mold, waxy brown or white bumps on stems and leaf undersides; leaves yellow and drop Scrub off with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol; apply horticultural oil; repeat treatment every 2 weeks

Fine pale stippling on leaves, webbing on undersides, premature leaf drop — worst in dry heated rooms in winter Shower plant regularly; increase humidity with a pebble tray; apply neem oil or insecticidal soap

White cottony masses in leaf axils and on stems, sticky residue, and distorted stunted new growth Dab with rubbing alcohol on a cotton swab; spray with insecticidal soap; isolate plant to prevent spread to others

Larvae damage roots in overly moist potting mix; adults are a nuisance but rarely cause serious harm Allow soil to dry out between waterings; use sticky yellow traps for adults; apply beneficial nematodes or Bt israelensis to soil