Pest identification
What's eating my philodendron el choco red?
Thrips
Signs: Silvery scars and streaks on red juvenile leaves; distorted new growth; dark frass specks visible
Control: Prune and discard damaged leaves; spray with spinosad or neem oil every 5–7 days; use sticky blue traps to monitor
Spider mites
Signs: Bronze stippling on leaf surfaces dulling the red colouration; webbing on undersides
Control: Mist frequently to raise humidity; apply neem oil or insecticidal soap spray; wipe undersides with damp cloth
Mealybugs
Signs: White waxy clusters at leaf axils and stem nodes; sticky honeydew attracting mould
Control: Remove with alcohol swab; treat with neem oil spray every 7–10 days; keep plant isolated until clear
Keep philodendron el choco red pest-free
Healthy plants resist pests best. Get the basics right:
Philodendron El Choco Red pests — FAQ
What is eating my philodendron el choco red?
Philodendron rubrijuvenile 'El Choco Red' is prized for its deep-red juvenile foliage and is grown as an indoor tropical. Thrips are a particular concern as they permanently scar the vivid red new leaves. Spider mites and mealybugs are consistent secondary threats. Good hygiene and preventive neem oil protect the showpiece foliage.
How do I get rid of thrips on philodendron el choco red?
Silvery scars and streaks on red juvenile leaves; distorted new growth; dark frass specks visible Prune and discard damaged leaves; spray with spinosad or neem oil every 5–7 days; use sticky blue traps to monitor
How do I get rid of spider mites on philodendron el choco red?
Bronze stippling on leaf surfaces dulling the red colouration; webbing on undersides Mist frequently to raise humidity; apply neem oil or insecticidal soap spray; wipe undersides with damp cloth
How do I get rid of mealybugs on philodendron el choco red?
White waxy clusters at leaf axils and stem nodes; sticky honeydew attracting mould Remove with alcohol swab; treat with neem oil spray every 7–10 days; keep plant isolated until clear