Pest identification
What's eating my johann's neoregelia?
Mealybugs
Signs: Cottony white clusters inside the rosette and at leaf bases; slowed growth and sticky leaves
Control: Swab with isopropyl alcohol; apply neem oil spray to all leaf surfaces; isolate from other plants
Scale insects
Signs: Brown bumps on leaves; weakened foliage with patches of yellowing
Control: Hand-pick or scrub with a soapy brush; treat with horticultural oil; repeat after two weeks
Fungus gnats
Signs: Larvae nibble fine roots in wet compost; adults are a nuisance around the pot
Control: Let the medium dry more between waterings; use yellow sticky traps; apply a Bti drench to the medium
Keep johann's neoregelia pest-free
Healthy plants resist pests best. Get the basics right:
Johann's Neoregelia pests — FAQ
What is eating my johann's neoregelia?
Johann's Neoregelia (Neoregelia johannis) is vulnerable to mealybugs that settle inside its rosette cup and leaf axils, the most common problem for indoor Neoregelias. Scale insects can appear on the leaf surface. Fungus gnats are an occasional issue when the growing medium holds too much moisture between waterings.
How do I get rid of mealybugs on johann's neoregelia?
Cottony white clusters inside the rosette and at leaf bases; slowed growth and sticky leaves Swab with isopropyl alcohol; apply neem oil spray to all leaf surfaces; isolate from other plants
How do I get rid of scale insects on johann's neoregelia?
Brown bumps on leaves; weakened foliage with patches of yellowing Hand-pick or scrub with a soapy brush; treat with horticultural oil; repeat after two weeks
How do I get rid of fungus gnats on johann's neoregelia?
Larvae nibble fine roots in wet compost; adults are a nuisance around the pot Let the medium dry more between waterings; use yellow sticky traps; apply a Bti drench to the medium