Pest identification
What's eating my tillandsia magnusiana?
Mealybugs
Signs: White cottony patches nestled between the thin, hair-like leaves; plant growth slows and tips brown
Control: Dip or spray with diluted isopropyl alcohol (1 part alcohol to 3 parts water); allow to dry thoroughly in bright indirect light
Scale insects
Signs: Tiny brown or cream-coloured bumps on leaf bases; sticky residue and discolouration
Control: Remove individual scales with a cotton swab soaked in rubbing alcohol; treat with diluted neem oil and rinse off after an hour
Keep tillandsia magnusiana pest-free
Healthy plants resist pests best. Get the basics right:
Tillandsia magnusiana pests — FAQ
What is eating my tillandsia magnusiana?
Tillandsia magnusiana is a fuzzy, silvery air plant that rarely suffers severe pest pressure because it has no soil and dries quickly after misting. Mealybugs are the most likely attacker, hiding between leaves. Scale can also occur. Good air circulation after soaking is the best preventive measure.
How do I get rid of mealybugs on tillandsia magnusiana?
White cottony patches nestled between the thin, hair-like leaves; plant growth slows and tips brown Dip or spray with diluted isopropyl alcohol (1 part alcohol to 3 parts water); allow to dry thoroughly in bright indirect light
How do I get rid of scale insects on tillandsia magnusiana?
Tiny brown or cream-coloured bumps on leaf bases; sticky residue and discolouration Remove individual scales with a cotton swab soaked in rubbing alcohol; treat with diluted neem oil and rinse off after an hour