Pest identification
What's eating my large-leaved maidenhair fern?
Spider mites
Signs: Silvery or bronzed stippling on the upper surfaces of large pinnae; webbing underneath; fronds dry out
Control: Raise humidity; wash fronds with a damp cloth; spray with dilute neem oil or insecticidal soap weekly for three applications
Mealybugs
Signs: White cottony deposits at petiole joints and frond bases; honeydew residue
Control: Swab with 70% isopropyl alcohol; follow with insecticidal soap spray; isolate the plant until clear
Scale insects
Signs: Tan or brown waxy bumps on petioles; yellowing and loss of vigour
Control: Scrape off with a soft toothbrush; wipe with neem oil on a damp cloth; repeat every two weeks
Keep large-leaved maidenhair fern pest-free
Healthy plants resist pests best. Get the basics right:
Large-leaved Maidenhair Fern pests — FAQ
What is eating my large-leaved maidenhair fern?
Large-leaved Maidenhair Fern (Adiantum macrophyllum) has broad, distinctive pinnae that show spider mite damage clearly as pale silvery stippling. Mealybugs shelter in petiole joints, and scale may establish on stems. Fungus gnats are common in its moist compost. Its large fronds make it easier to wipe down and treat compared to finer-leafed species.
How do I get rid of spider mites on large-leaved maidenhair fern?
Silvery or bronzed stippling on the upper surfaces of large pinnae; webbing underneath; fronds dry out Raise humidity; wash fronds with a damp cloth; spray with dilute neem oil or insecticidal soap weekly for three applications
How do I get rid of mealybugs on large-leaved maidenhair fern?
White cottony deposits at petiole joints and frond bases; honeydew residue Swab with 70% isopropyl alcohol; follow with insecticidal soap spray; isolate the plant until clear
How do I get rid of scale insects on large-leaved maidenhair fern?
Tan or brown waxy bumps on petioles; yellowing and loss of vigour Scrape off with a soft toothbrush; wipe with neem oil on a damp cloth; repeat every two weeks