What's eating my ginseng ficus?

Ginseng Ficus (Ficus microcarpa 'Ginseng') is a popular indoor bonsai-style plant. Its swollen, exposed roots and compact canopy create humid micro-environments that spider mites and scale insects exploit. Mealybugs colonise root crevices as well as foliage. The exposed root system also makes fungus gnat larvae more damaging. Spider mites are the most common threat.

Tiny pale dots stippling leaf surfaces; fine webbing beneath leaves; premature leaf drop in dry centrally heated rooms Increase humidity; rinse foliage with water; spray neem oil or insecticidal soap on all leaf surfaces; repeat weekly for a month; keep away from heat vents

Waxy brown bumps on exposed roots, trunk, and stems; honeydew dripping onto the decorative pot; sooty mould on leaves Brush off with a soft toothbrush; apply neem oil solution to roots and trunk; use a systemic insecticide for heavy infestations; inspect the root flare at every watering

White cottony clusters in root crevices, leaf axils, and stem forks; plant may yellow and drop leaves; root mealybugs weaken the root system Treat foliage with isopropyl alcohol swabs and neem oil; for root mealybugs, flush compost with a dilute neem oil drench; repot if infestation is severe, washing roots clean

Larvae feed on fine roots especially around the shallow root flare; adult gnats are a nuisance; heavy infestations weaken the plant Allow compost to dry slightly between waterings; apply Steinernema feltiae nematodes to moist compost; use yellow sticky traps for adults; top-dress with grit