What's eating my pixie lime peperomia?

Pixie Lime Peperomia's semi-succulent leaves and compact form mean pest pressure is generally low. Mealybugs are the most frequent offender, hiding in the crowded rosette. Spider mites can appear in low humidity and fungus gnats emerge if the plant is overwatered — a common mistake given its small pot size.

White cottony fluff tucked into stem joints and the centre of the rosette; leaves yellow; plant growth slows Remove with a cotton swab soaked in 70% isopropyl alcohol; spray the whole plant with insecticidal soap; repeat weekly and isolate from other plants

Pale stippling on upper leaf surfaces; webbing in tight leaf clusters; foliage loses its bright lime colour Raise ambient humidity; rinse the plant gently to dislodge mites; apply neem oil spray every 7 days until clear

Tiny flies hovering around the pot; root damage from larvae leads to sudden drooping despite moist soil Allow the top 2–3 cm of soil to dry fully before re-watering; use yellow sticky cards; apply Bti drench if adults persist