Pest identification
What's eating my inch plant 'nanouk'?
Spider mites
Signs: Fine pale stippling on leaves, webbing between stems; leaves lose their vibrant pink-white variegation
Control: Rinse plant thoroughly in the shower; apply insecticidal soap or neem oil spray every 5–7 days until clear
Aphids
Signs: Clusters of green or black insects on soft new growth tips; sticky honeydew on lower leaves
Control: Blast off with water; apply insecticidal soap spray and repeat weekly; remove heavily infested stem tips
Fungus gnats
Signs: Adults fly around the soil surface; larvae chew fine roots, causing drooping and slow growth
Control: Let the top inch of soil dry before watering; place yellow sticky traps and apply BTi drench if larvae confirmed
Keep inch plant 'nanouk' pest-free
Healthy plants resist pests best. Get the basics right:
Inch Plant 'Nanouk' pests — FAQ
What is eating my inch plant 'nanouk'?
Tradescantia 'Nanouk' is most frequently attacked by spider mites, especially in low-humidity indoor environments where the fast-growing stems provide easy spread. Aphids target new growth, and fungus gnats can appear if soil stays too moist. Regular misting, good airflow, and prompt treatment stop infestations from taking hold.
How do I get rid of spider mites on inch plant 'nanouk'?
Fine pale stippling on leaves, webbing between stems; leaves lose their vibrant pink-white variegation Rinse plant thoroughly in the shower; apply insecticidal soap or neem oil spray every 5–7 days until clear
How do I get rid of aphids on inch plant 'nanouk'?
Clusters of green or black insects on soft new growth tips; sticky honeydew on lower leaves Blast off with water; apply insecticidal soap spray and repeat weekly; remove heavily infested stem tips
How do I get rid of fungus gnats on inch plant 'nanouk'?
Adults fly around the soil surface; larvae chew fine roots, causing drooping and slow growth Let the top inch of soil dry before watering; place yellow sticky traps and apply BTi drench if larvae confirmed