Growli

Pest identification

What's eating my fittonia albivenis 'pink angel'?

Mealybugs

Signs: White cottony clusters appear at leaf axils and undersides; leaves yellow and the plant loses vigour

Control: Dab colonies with 70% isopropyl alcohol on a cotton swab; apply neem oil solution weekly; isolate the plant immediately to prevent spread

Spider mites (Tetranychus urticae)

Signs: Fine stippling on leaves; fine webbing on undersides in dry conditions; leaves bronze and drop

Control: Raise humidity above 60%; spray undersides with insecticidal soap or diluted neem oil; repeat every five to seven days for three cycles

Fungus gnats (Bradysia spp.)

Signs: Larvae damage shallow roots in moist potting mix, causing sudden wilting despite adequate watering

Control: Allow the top centimetre of soil to dry between waterings; use yellow sticky traps; apply Bti-based soil drench (e.g. Gnatrol) for persistent infestations

Keep fittonia albivenis 'pink angel' pest-free

Healthy plants resist pests best. Get the basics right:

Fittonia albivenis 'Pink Angel' pests — FAQ

What is eating my fittonia albivenis 'pink angel'?

Fittonia albivenis 'Pink Angel' is a compact terrarium and houseplant whose lush, moisture-loving foliage attracts mealybugs, spider mites, and fungus gnats. Mealybugs are the most persistent threat indoors. High humidity and good air circulation reduce pressure from both mites and gnats.

How do I get rid of mealybugs on fittonia albivenis 'pink angel'?

White cottony clusters appear at leaf axils and undersides; leaves yellow and the plant loses vigour Dab colonies with 70% isopropyl alcohol on a cotton swab; apply neem oil solution weekly; isolate the plant immediately to prevent spread

How do I get rid of spider mites (tetranychus urticae) on fittonia albivenis 'pink angel'?

Fine stippling on leaves; fine webbing on undersides in dry conditions; leaves bronze and drop Raise humidity above 60%; spray undersides with insecticidal soap or diluted neem oil; repeat every five to seven days for three cycles

How do I get rid of fungus gnats (bradysia spp.) on fittonia albivenis 'pink angel'?

Larvae damage shallow roots in moist potting mix, causing sudden wilting despite adequate watering Allow the top centimetre of soil to dry between waterings; use yellow sticky traps; apply Bti-based soil drench (e.g. Gnatrol) for persistent infestations