Most Common Resurrection Plant Pests:
Identification and Treatment Guide

Resurrection plants are a fascinating group of plants that have the ability to survive extreme drought conditions by entering a state of dormancy. When water becomes available again, these amazing plants quickly come back to life, hence their name. While resurrection plants are known for their resilience, they are not immune to pests. In this article, we will discuss some of the most common pests that can affect resurrection plants and provide a guide on how to identify and treat them.

Spider Mites

Spider mites are tiny pests that belong to the arachnid family. They are a common problem for many houseplants, including resurrection plants. These pests feed on plant sap by piercing the leaves and sucking out the juices. As a result, the affected leaves may show signs of yellowing, wilting, or even drying out.

To identify spider mite infestation, carefully examine the undersides of the leaves. You may notice tiny webbing or small specks moving around, indicating the presence of these pests. If left untreated, spider mites can multiply rapidly and cause significant damage to your resurrection plant.

To treat spider mite infestation, start by isolating the affected plant to prevent the pests from spreading to other plants. You can wash off the spider mites by gently spraying the leaves with a mixture of water and mild soap. Alternatively, you can use insecticidal soap or neem oil spray, following the product instructions carefully. Repeat the treatment every few days until the infestation is under control.

Mealybugs

Mealybugs are another common pest that can attack resurrection plants. These small, soft-bodied insects are covered in a white waxy substance that gives them a mealy or cottony appearance. Mealybugs feed on plant sap and can cause stunted growth, yellowing leaves, and a sticky residue on the plant’s surface.

To identify mealybug infestation, look for white, cottony clusters on the leaves, stems, and other plant parts. You may also notice black sooty mold growing on the sticky residue left behind by these pests. Mealybugs can reproduce rapidly, so it’s important to take action as soon as you spot them.

To treat mealybug infestation, start by manually removing the pests using a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol or a mixture of water and mild soap. Gently dab the affected areas to kill and remove the mealybugs. If the infestation is severe, you can use insecticidal soap or neem oil spray to control the pests. Repeat the treatment every week until the mealybugs are eliminated.

Scale Insects

Scale insects are small, immobile pests that attach themselves to plant surfaces and feed on plant sap. They are usually brown or black in color and often have a hard, shell-like covering that protects them from predators. Scale insects can cause yellowing leaves, stunted growth, and leaf drop if left untreated.

To identify scale insect infestation, carefully inspect the stems, leaves, and undersides of your resurrection plant. Look for small, round or oval-shaped bumps that are firmly attached to the plant’s surface. These bumps may vary in color depending on the species of scale insect. You may also notice a sticky residue known as honeydew on the plant’s surface.

Treating scale insect infestation can be challenging due to their protective covering. Start by gently scraping off the scales using a soft brush or your fingernail. You can also use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol or a mixture of water and mild soap to manually remove the pests. For severe infestations, consider using horticultural oil or insecticidal soap spray to suffocate and kill the scale insects. Repeat the treatment every few weeks until the infestation is under control.

Fungus Gnats

Fungus gnats are small, flying insects that are attracted to moist soil and decaying organic matter. While they do not directly harm resurrection plants, their larvae can cause damage to the plant’s root system. Fungus gnat larvae feed on plant roots, leading to poor growth, wilting, and yellowing leaves.

To identify fungus gnat infestation, look for small black flies hovering around your resurrection plant. You may also notice tiny worms or larvae in the soil when you water the plant. Fungus gnats are most commonly found in plants with overwatered or poorly draining soil.

To treat fungus gnat infestation, start by allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. This will help eliminate the moist environment that attracts these pests. You can also use sticky traps to catch adult fungus gnats and reduce their population. If the infestation persists, consider using a biological control method such as beneficial nematodes or predatory mites to target the larvae in the soil.

Conclusion

While resurrection plants are known for their ability to survive harsh conditions, they are still susceptible to pest infestations. Spider mites, mealybugs, scale insects, and fungus gnats are some of the most common pests that can affect these unique plants. By learning how to identify these pests and applying appropriate treatment methods, you can ensure the health and vitality of your resurrection plants. Remember to regularly inspect your plants and take prompt action at the first sign of infestation to prevent further damage.