Pest identification
What's eating my streptocarpus 'targa'?
Mealybugs
Signs: White waxy clusters at leaf bases and petiole junctions; honeydew deposits and black sooty mould
Control: Dab with isopropyl alcohol; apply neem oil spray to all leaf surfaces; repeat every 7–10 days
Aphids
Signs: Distorted new leaves and sticky flower buds; green or black insects visible on soft tips
Control: Insecticidal soap spray; physical removal with a moist cloth or water jet
Vine weevil
Signs: Wilting despite adequate watering; white C-shaped grubs at the root crown when checked
Control: Biological nematode treatment (Steinernema kraussei); check roots annually at repotting
Keep streptocarpus 'targa' pest-free
Healthy plants resist pests best. Get the basics right:
Streptocarpus 'Targa' pests — FAQ
What is eating my streptocarpus 'targa'?
Streptocarpus 'Targa' is an indoor Streptocarpus cultivar facing the same indoor pest pressures as others in the genus. Mealybugs colonise leaf axils and crowns; aphids target young flower stems; vine weevils destroy roots unseen. Good humidity and airflow reduce risk, but regular inspection is essential.
How do I get rid of mealybugs on streptocarpus 'targa'?
White waxy clusters at leaf bases and petiole junctions; honeydew deposits and black sooty mould Dab with isopropyl alcohol; apply neem oil spray to all leaf surfaces; repeat every 7–10 days
How do I get rid of aphids on streptocarpus 'targa'?
Distorted new leaves and sticky flower buds; green or black insects visible on soft tips Insecticidal soap spray; physical removal with a moist cloth or water jet
How do I get rid of vine weevil on streptocarpus 'targa'?
Wilting despite adequate watering; white C-shaped grubs at the root crown when checked Biological nematode treatment (Steinernema kraussei); check roots annually at repotting