What's eating my peperomia asperula?

Peperomia asperula, a succulent-leaved Andean species kept indoors, faces the same small pest cast as other peperomias: mealybugs tucked in its dense stem clusters and spider mites in very dry air. Its thick leaves make heavy damage unlikely. The biggest risk is root rot from overwatering, which weakens the plant and attracts fungus gnats.

Cottony white deposits in stem crevices and at the base; affected tissue yellows. Apply 70% isopropyl alcohol directly with a cotton swab; repeat weekly. Follow with neem oil spray to prevent return.

Dusty stippling on leaf surfaces; fine silk webbing visible in dry conditions. Wipe foliage clean and spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil; improve humidity around the plant.

Larvae damage shallow roots in soggy substrate; adults are a nuisance but rarely cause serious harm alone. Water sparingly — let soil dry well; apply Bti drench and use sticky traps to catch adults.