Bromeliad Insects Overview
Bromeliad Plant Family Insects Information Overview
Few insects bother bromeliads, and those that do can be controlled. A number of scale insects attack bromeliads. Appearing as small round or oval objects on the leaves, scale insects multiply rapidly. They make plants unsightly by producing yellow spots on the leaves where the insects suck plant juices.
Mealybugs and root mealybugs, both characterized by their cotton-wool protective covering, may also attack bromeliads. When mature, mealybugs vary from 1/5 to 1/3-inch long and some species have long wax filaments extending from the rear of the body. They damage bromeliads by sucking plant juices.
Spider mites may also attack bromeliads. They are about 1/50-inch long when mature and may be greenish, yellowish, reddish or virtually colorless. Commonly found on the undersides of leaves, they suck juices from plants through their needle-like mouthparts. A 10- or 15-power hand lens is very helpful in detecting infestations before severe damage occurs.
After bringing a bromeliad home, isolate it for a month and carefully examine it for pests before placing it with other bromeliads. If a pest is found, either discard the plant or contact your county agriculture extension agent for recommendations on appropriate pest-control methods.
Specific Insect Information
Bromeliads Insects Information
May 19, 2006
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