Pest identification
What's eating my pilea grandifolia?
Spider mites
Signs: Bronze stippling on the large leaf surfaces; fine webbing; premature leaf drop.
Control: Wipe leaves with a damp cloth; spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil; boost humidity and ensure good air circulation.
Mealybugs
Signs: White cottony masses at stem nodes and leaf bases; yellowing; stunted growth.
Control: Apply isopropyl alcohol with a swab; spray neem oil; isolate immediately and repeat treatment weekly.
Scale insects
Signs: Brown or tan bumps on stems; sticky honeydew; weakened, yellow foliage.
Control: Scrape off scale with a soft brush; treat with horticultural oil or insecticidal soap; repeat after 2 weeks.
Keep pilea grandifolia pest-free
Healthy plants resist pests best. Get the basics right:
Pilea grandifolia pests — FAQ
What is eating my pilea grandifolia?
Pilea grandifolia is a large-leaved tropical houseplant susceptible to the standard indoor Pilea pest complex. Spider mites and mealybugs are the most likely threats, particularly on the broad leaf surfaces and stems. Scale insects can also settle on mature stems. Low humidity and overcrowding significantly increase risk.
How do I get rid of spider mites on pilea grandifolia?
Bronze stippling on the large leaf surfaces; fine webbing; premature leaf drop. Wipe leaves with a damp cloth; spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil; boost humidity and ensure good air circulation.
How do I get rid of mealybugs on pilea grandifolia?
White cottony masses at stem nodes and leaf bases; yellowing; stunted growth. Apply isopropyl alcohol with a swab; spray neem oil; isolate immediately and repeat treatment weekly.
How do I get rid of scale insects on pilea grandifolia?
Brown or tan bumps on stems; sticky honeydew; weakened, yellow foliage. Scrape off scale with a soft brush; treat with horticultural oil or insecticidal soap; repeat after 2 weeks.