What's eating my philodendron tortum (fernleaf)?

Philodendron tortum (Fernleaf) has skeletal, deeply divided leaves that create many nooks for pests. Spider mites are the biggest threat, rapidly colonising the thin leaf segments. Mealybugs hide within the intricate leaf divisions. Thrips may also damage new emerging growth. The open leaf structure actually makes spraying easier and more effective.

Pale stippling across the narrow leaf segments; fine webbing; leaves yellow quickly under heavy attack Spray all surfaces — including within leaf divisions — with neem oil or insecticidal soap; increase humidity; repeat weekly

White cottony masses deep inside the divided leaf structure and at stem joints Use a soft paintbrush dipped in alcohol to reach into leaf divisions; follow with a neem oil drench

Silver-grey streaking and distortion on new growth; dark frass on leaf surfaces Apply spinosad spray; remove damaged new leaves; use sticky traps for monitoring