What's eating my guzmania wittmackii?

Guzmania wittmackii is an indoor tropical bromeliad most affected by mealybugs and scale insects hiding within the rosette. Spider mites attack under low humidity. Fungus gnats breed in the standing water of the central cup if it is not refreshed. As with all bromeliads, the dense rosette structure shelters pests from easy detection.

White waxy masses in leaf axils and at the base of flower spikes; leaf yellowing and sticky honeydew Dab with isopropyl alcohol; drench rosette with diluted neem oil; isolate plant to prevent spread to neighboring bromeliads

Hard or soft bumps on leaf undersides and stem bases; reduced vigor and sooty mold from honeydew Scrub off with soft brush and alcohol; spray thoroughly with horticultural oil; repeat every 2–3 weeks

Fine pale stippling on leaf surfaces; faint webbing visible on undersides in very dry, warm rooms Mist regularly; increase humidity with a pebble tray; apply neem oil spray; ensure good air circulation