Common Candle Plant Pests:
Prevention and Control Methods

Candle plants, also known as candelilla, are popular houseplants due to their striking appearance and easy care. However, like any other plant, candle plants can be vulnerable to pests that can damage their health and appearance. Here are some common candle plant pests and how to prevent and control them.

Spider Mites

Spider mites are tiny pests that can cause a lot of damage to candle plants. They feed on the plant’s sap, which can weaken the plant and cause discoloration or death of leaves. Spider mites thrive in warm and dry environments, so it is important to keep the air humid around your candle plant.

Prevention

• Spray the leaves of your candle plant with a fine mist of water regularly to increase humidity.
• Avoid placing your candle plant near heat sources or air conditioning vents.
• Inspect new plants before bringing them home to make sure they are free of spider mites.

Control

• Use a gentle insecticidal soap to kill spider mites on your candle plant.
• If the infestation is severe, consider using a miticide specifically designed for spider mites.

Mealybugs

Mealybugs are soft-bodied insects that feed on the sap of candle plants. They are usually found in clusters on the undersides of leaves or at the base of the plant. Mealybugs secrete a waxy substance that can attract ants and lead to fungal growth on the plant.

Prevention

• Inspect new plants before bringing them home to make sure they are free of mealybugs.
• Remove dead or diseased leaves from your candle plant promptly.
• Avoid over-fertilizing your candle plant, which can attract mealybugs.

Control

• Use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to kill individual mealybugs.
• Spray your candle plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil to control a larger infestation.

Scale Insects

Scale insects are small pests that attach themselves to the stems and leaves of candle plants. They feed on sap and excrete a sticky substance called honeydew that can attract ants and cause black sooty mold to grow on the plant.

Prevention

• Inspect new plants before bringing them home to make sure they are free of scale insects.
• Keep your candle plant healthy by providing it with adequate water and light.
• Clean your candle plant’s leaves regularly with a damp cloth or sponge.

Control

• Use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to kill individual scale insects.
• Spray your candle plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil to control a larger infestation.
• If the infestation is severe, consider using a systemic insecticide that can be absorbed by the plant’s roots and transported throughout the plant.

FAQ

Q: Can I use dish soap instead of insecticidal soap?

A: While dish soap may work as an insecticide, it is not recommended for use on plants as it can strip away the protective waxy layer on their leaves, making them more vulnerable to pests and diseases.

Q: Should I remove all affected leaves from my candle plant?

A: It depends on the severity of the infestation. If only a few leaves are affected, you can remove them without harming the overall health of the plant. However, if a large portion of the plant is affected, it may be best to consider treating it with an insecticide or seeking professional help.

Q: How often should I inspect my candle plant for pests?

A: It is recommended to inspect your candle plant at least once a week for signs of pests or diseases. This will allow you to catch any issues early and prevent them from spreading.