Pest identification
What's eating my neoregelia cruenta?
Mealybugs
Signs: White cottony deposits at the base of leaves and in the rosette cup; leaves lose colour and vigour
Control: Apply 70% isopropyl alcohol with a cotton swab directly to each colony; treat with neem oil monthly
Scale insects
Signs: Small brown or tan bumps on leaf undersides and margins; honeydew residue and sooty mold
Control: Scrape off gently with a soft brush; spray with horticultural oil diluted per label every 10 days
Spider mites
Signs: Fine pale speckling on leaves and light webbing; more prevalent in hot, dry conditions
Control: Mist frequently, maintain >50% humidity, and treat with insecticidal soap spray
Keep neoregelia cruenta pest-free
Healthy plants resist pests best. Get the basics right:
Neoregelia cruenta pests — FAQ
What is eating my neoregelia cruenta?
Neoregelia cruenta is a sturdy indoor bromeliad that can still fall victim to mealybugs and scale concealed in its leaf rosette. In dry heated rooms, spider mites may also appear. Fungus gnats occasionally breed in the potting medium. Keeping the central cup topped with fresh water and the plant in bright light discourages most pests.
How do I get rid of mealybugs on neoregelia cruenta?
White cottony deposits at the base of leaves and in the rosette cup; leaves lose colour and vigour Apply 70% isopropyl alcohol with a cotton swab directly to each colony; treat with neem oil monthly
How do I get rid of scale insects on neoregelia cruenta?
Small brown or tan bumps on leaf undersides and margins; honeydew residue and sooty mold Scrape off gently with a soft brush; spray with horticultural oil diluted per label every 10 days
How do I get rid of spider mites on neoregelia cruenta?
Fine pale speckling on leaves and light webbing; more prevalent in hot, dry conditions Mist frequently, maintain >50% humidity, and treat with insecticidal soap spray