What's eating my velvet calathea jungle?

Calathea warscewiczii shares the Calathea family's well-known vulnerability to spider mites, especially in centrally heated rooms with low humidity. Mealybugs exploit the large, velvety leaves. Keeping humidity high and ensuring good air circulation are the most effective preventative measures for this lush jungle species.

Pale speckled stippling across the upper leaf surface; webbing visible on undersides and between stems in heavy infestations. Shower the plant weekly to dislodge mites. Apply insecticidal soap or a diluted castile-soap spray; test neem oil on one leaf first as Calatheas can react poorly. Increase ambient humidity.

Fluffy white wax deposits at leaf nodes and along stems; sticky honeydew attracting mould. Dab mealybugs with 70% isopropyl alcohol on a cotton swab. Spray the entire plant with insecticidal soap and isolate it from other houseplants during treatment.

Silver or bronze streaking and scarring on leaf surfaces; tiny dark frass dots visible on undersides. Remove heavily affected leaves. Apply spinosad or insecticidal soap spray to all leaf surfaces, including undersides. Repeat every five to seven days for at least three cycles.