Pest identification
What's eating my tillandsia seleriana?
Spider mites
Signs: Stippled, pale leaves with fine webbing; leaf tips die back; plant looks desiccated despite watering
Control: Soak weekly and increase humidity; treat with neem oil or insecticidal soap spray; ensure airflow to dry fully
Mealybugs
Signs: White cottony clusters inside the hollow pseudobulb base and among the leaf bases; sticky deposits and plant decline
Control: Flush interior with a 1:3 alcohol-to-water mix using a dropper; allow to drain and dry completely; repeat weekly
Keep tillandsia seleriana pest-free
Healthy plants resist pests best. Get the basics right:
Tillandsia Seleriana pests — FAQ
What is eating my tillandsia seleriana?
Tillandsia seleriana is a bulbous pseudobulb air plant whose hollow base can shelter insects. Spider mites are the most likely indoor pest in low humidity. Mealybugs are particularly problematic as they hide inside the pseudobulb's interior chambers. Good air circulation, regular misting, and thorough drying help prevent both pests effectively.
How do I get rid of spider mites on tillandsia seleriana?
Stippled, pale leaves with fine webbing; leaf tips die back; plant looks desiccated despite watering Soak weekly and increase humidity; treat with neem oil or insecticidal soap spray; ensure airflow to dry fully
How do I get rid of mealybugs on tillandsia seleriana?
White cottony clusters inside the hollow pseudobulb base and among the leaf bases; sticky deposits and plant decline Flush interior with a 1:3 alcohol-to-water mix using a dropper; allow to drain and dry completely; repeat weekly