Most Common Lyrata Plant Pests:
Identification and Treatment Guide

The Ficus lyrata, commonly known as the fiddle-leaf fig, is a popular houseplant known for its large, violin-shaped leaves. However, like any other plant, the lyrata is not immune to pests. In this article, we will explore the most common pests that affect the lyrata plant and provide a comprehensive identification and treatment guide.

1. Mealybugs

Mealybugs are one of the most common pests that infest fiddle-leaf figs. These small, soft-bodied insects are covered in a white, cottony substance that resembles meal or flour. They feed on plant juices by piercing the leaf tissues, causing yellowing and stunted growth.

To identify mealybugs, inspect the undersides of leaves and leaf axils for clusters of small, cotton-like masses. You may also notice the presence of sticky honeydew on the leaves and surrounding surfaces.

To treat a mealybug infestation, start by isolating the affected plant to prevent the spread of pests. Use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to manually remove individual bugs. For larger infestations, spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Repeat the treatment every week until all signs of mealybugs are gone.

2. Spider Mites

Spider mites are tiny arachnids that can wreak havoc on fiddle-leaf figs. These pests thrive in warm and dry conditions and are often found on the undersides of leaves. Spider mites suck the sap from plants, causing stippling, bronzing, and yellowing of leaves.

To identify spider mites, look for fine webbing on the leaves and stems. You may also notice tiny specks moving around on the surface of leaves, which are the mites themselves.

To treat a spider mite infestation, start by misting the leaves with water to increase humidity and discourage mite reproduction. Use a strong jet of water to wash away the mites from the plant. For severe infestations, apply insecticidal soap or neem oil following the manufacturer’s instructions. Repeat the treatment every few days until the spider mites are eliminated.

3. Scale Insects

Scale insects are small, immobile pests that attach themselves to the stems and leaves of fiddle-leaf figs. They create a protective shell-like covering that resembles scales, hence their name. Scale insects feed on plant sap, causing yellowing, wilting, and leaf drop.

To identify scale insects, inspect the plant for small, raised bumps on the stems and leaves. These bumps can be brown, black, or white in color, depending on the species. You may also notice sticky honeydew on the plant and surrounding surfaces.

To treat a scale infestation, start by manually removing individual scales using a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol or a soft brush. For larger infestations, use insecticidal soap or neem oil following the manufacturer’s instructions. Ensure thorough coverage of all affected parts of the plant. Repeat the treatment every 10-14 days until all scales are eradicated.

4. Aphids

Aphids are small, pear-shaped insects that come in various colors including green, black, brown, and red. These pests feed on plant sap and reproduce rapidly, causing distorted growth and curling of leaves. Aphids also excrete a sticky substance called honeydew that attracts ants and promotes the growth of sooty mold.

To identify aphids, inspect the fiddle-leaf fig for clusters of small insects on new growth and undersides of leaves. You may also notice curled or distorted foliage and the presence of sticky honeydew.

To treat an aphid infestation, start by spraying the plant with a strong jet of water to dislodge the insects. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Repeat the treatment every few days until all aphids are gone.

5. Whiteflies

Whiteflies are small, winged insects that resemble tiny moths. These pests feed on plant sap and excrete sticky honeydew, leading to the growth of sooty mold. Whiteflies can quickly multiply and infest a fiddle-leaf fig, causing yellowing, wilting, and leaf drop.

To identify whiteflies, look for small white insects flying around the plant when disturbed. You may also notice the presence of sticky honeydew on the leaves and surrounding surfaces.

To treat a whitefly infestation, start by using a vacuum cleaner with a hose attachment to suck up adult flies. For larger infestations, use yellow sticky traps to catch flying adults and apply insecticidal soap or neem oil following the manufacturer’s instructions. Repeat the treatment every few days until all signs of whiteflies are eliminated.

In conclusion, while fiddle-leaf figs are beautiful plants to have indoors, they are susceptible to various pests. It is crucial to regularly inspect your lyrata plant for any signs of infestations and take immediate action to treat them accordingly. By following this identification and treatment guide, you can keep your fiddle-leaf fig healthy and pest-free.