Pest identification
What's eating my philodendron domesticum?
Spider mites
Signs: Pale yellow stippling on upper leaf surface; fine silk webbing on undersides; accelerated in hot, dry indoor conditions
Control: Mist or shower the plant; apply neem oil or insecticidal soap to all surfaces; repeat every 7 days for 3–4 cycles
Mealybugs
Signs: Cottony white clusters at leaf axils and stem nodes; sticky honeydew; reduced growth and leaf yellowing
Control: Spot-treat with isopropyl alcohol; spray entire plant with insecticidal soap; check every 10 days and retreat as needed
Aphids
Signs: Soft green or black insects clustered on new growth and petioles; curled or puckered young leaves; honeydew residue
Control: Knock aphids off with a strong water spray; apply neem oil or insecticidal soap; beneficial insects (ladybugs) help outdoors
Keep philodendron domesticum pest-free
Healthy plants resist pests best. Get the basics right:
Philodendron Domesticum pests — FAQ
What is eating my philodendron domesticum?
Philodendron domesticum (spade-leaf philodendron) is a robust climbing houseplant most commonly attacked by spider mites and mealybugs. Its large smooth leaves are easy to inspect. Problems usually arise when the plant is kept too dry or in poor airflow. Wipe the leaves monthly and apply neem oil at the first sign of trouble.
How do I get rid of spider mites on philodendron domesticum?
Pale yellow stippling on upper leaf surface; fine silk webbing on undersides; accelerated in hot, dry indoor conditions Mist or shower the plant; apply neem oil or insecticidal soap to all surfaces; repeat every 7 days for 3–4 cycles
How do I get rid of mealybugs on philodendron domesticum?
Cottony white clusters at leaf axils and stem nodes; sticky honeydew; reduced growth and leaf yellowing Spot-treat with isopropyl alcohol; spray entire plant with insecticidal soap; check every 10 days and retreat as needed
How do I get rid of aphids on philodendron domesticum?
Soft green or black insects clustered on new growth and petioles; curled or puckered young leaves; honeydew residue Knock aphids off with a strong water spray; apply neem oil or insecticidal soap; beneficial insects (ladybugs) help outdoors