Pest identification
What's eating my gloxinia sylvatica?
Aphids
Signs: Clusters of soft-bodied insects on stems and flower buds; sticky honeydew on foliage; distorted new growth
Control: Blast with water; apply insecticidal soap or neem oil spray; introduce ladybirds as biological control outdoors
Spider mites
Signs: Fine webbing on undersides of leaves; stippled, bronzed or yellowing foliage; leaf drop in severe infestations
Control: Increase humidity; spray thoroughly with neem oil or miticide; isolate affected plants immediately
Slugs and snails
Signs: Ragged holes in leaves and petals overnight; silvery slime trails on foliage and pots
Control: Remove by hand at night; use iron phosphate slug pellets around pots; trap with beer traps outdoors
Keep gloxinia sylvatica pest-free
Healthy plants resist pests best. Get the basics right:
Gloxinia sylvatica pests — FAQ
What is eating my gloxinia sylvatica?
Gloxinia sylvatica, a tuberous flowering plant, is most threatened by aphids and botrytis fungal damage under high humidity. Spider mites can colonize plants kept in dry indoor conditions. Slugs and snails may graze on leaves and flowers if grown outdoors. Inspect new growth regularly and ensure good air circulation.
How do I get rid of aphids on gloxinia sylvatica?
Clusters of soft-bodied insects on stems and flower buds; sticky honeydew on foliage; distorted new growth Blast with water; apply insecticidal soap or neem oil spray; introduce ladybirds as biological control outdoors
How do I get rid of spider mites on gloxinia sylvatica?
Fine webbing on undersides of leaves; stippled, bronzed or yellowing foliage; leaf drop in severe infestations Increase humidity; spray thoroughly with neem oil or miticide; isolate affected plants immediately
How do I get rid of slugs and snails on gloxinia sylvatica?
Ragged holes in leaves and petals overnight; silvery slime trails on foliage and pots Remove by hand at night; use iron phosphate slug pellets around pots; trap with beer traps outdoors