Pest identification
What's eating my peperomia crassifolia?
Mealybugs
Signs: White woolly tufts at leaf axils and stem joints; honeydew leads to sooty mold
Control: Spot-treat with 70% isopropyl alcohol; follow with weekly neem oil spray until gone
Fungus gnats
Signs: Soil-dwelling larvae chew roots; adult flies are visible hovering over the pot
Control: Water less frequently; use Bti drench (e.g., Gnatrol) or yellow sticky traps near the pot
Keep peperomia crassifolia pest-free
Healthy plants resist pests best. Get the basics right:
Peperomia crassifolia pests — FAQ
What is eating my peperomia crassifolia?
Peperomia crassifolia (leathery peperomia) is fairly pest-resistant thanks to its thick, waxy leaves, but mealybugs and fungus gnats remain the most common problems indoors. Overwatering is the leading cause of fungus gnat outbreaks. Treat mealybugs at first sight and allow soil to dry adequately between waterings to keep this species thriving.
How do I get rid of mealybugs on peperomia crassifolia?
White woolly tufts at leaf axils and stem joints; honeydew leads to sooty mold Spot-treat with 70% isopropyl alcohol; follow with weekly neem oil spray until gone
How do I get rid of fungus gnats on peperomia crassifolia?
Soil-dwelling larvae chew roots; adult flies are visible hovering over the pot Water less frequently; use Bti drench (e.g., Gnatrol) or yellow sticky traps near the pot