Pest identification
What's eating my moss rose?
Aphids
Signs: Soft-bodied clusters on shoot tips; distorted buds and honeydew residue.
Control: Spray with insecticidal soap solution; knock off with water; repeat weekly until clear.
Mealybugs
Signs: White waxy fluff at stem joints and leaf axils; stunted growth and wilting.
Control: Dab individual insects with rubbing alcohol on a cotton swab; apply neem oil drench to the soil zone.
Thrips
Signs: Silvery, streaked petals; premature flower drop; petals appear scorched at edges.
Control: Remove affected flowers; apply spinosad-based spray in the evening; use sticky yellow traps nearby.
Keep moss rose pest-free
Healthy plants resist pests best. Get the basics right:
Moss rose pests — FAQ
What is eating my moss rose?
Moss rose (Portulaca grandiflora) is notably resistant to most pests due to its succulent, drought-adapted nature, but aphids attack tender new growth and mealybugs may colonise stem joints. Thrips occasionally damage flowers. Overwatered plants become vulnerable to fungus gnats. Overall pest pressure is low.
How do I get rid of aphids on moss rose?
Soft-bodied clusters on shoot tips; distorted buds and honeydew residue. Spray with insecticidal soap solution; knock off with water; repeat weekly until clear.
How do I get rid of mealybugs on moss rose?
White waxy fluff at stem joints and leaf axils; stunted growth and wilting. Dab individual insects with rubbing alcohol on a cotton swab; apply neem oil drench to the soil zone.
How do I get rid of thrips on moss rose?
Silvery, streaked petals; premature flower drop; petals appear scorched at edges. Remove affected flowers; apply spinosad-based spray in the evening; use sticky yellow traps nearby.