What's eating my narrow-leaf dioon?

Narrow-leaf Dioon is a rare Mexican cycad kept indoors or in frost-free gardens. Scale insects are its primary pest, coating stems and fronds. Mealybugs and spider mites also strike in warm, dry environments. Outdoors, slugs can rasp on emerging croziers. Vigilant inspection is essential for this slow-growing specimen.

Hard shells on stems and leaf undersides; yellowing fronds, stunted new growth, sticky honeydew deposits Scrape off manually; treat with horticultural oil or systemic neonicotinoid drench; repeat applications may be needed

White waxy clumps in crown and leaf axils; sooty mold on honeydew; weakened new fronds Remove with alcohol-dampened swabs; spray insecticidal soap or neem oil every 7–10 days until clear

Pale stippling across leaflets; fine webbing under dry indoor conditions Mist foliage frequently to raise humidity; apply neem oil or miticide; repeat weekly for at least 3 cycles