Insects & Pests of the Yucca

Rabbits

• Cottontail rabbits and jackrabbits are common problems for yucca plants. They feed on the fleshy leaves and flower stalks of the plants, and can cause major damage. In the wild, this damage can be fatal for the plant; but in a home garden, the damage is mostly cosmetic. Putting up a rabbit-proof fence is the only effective method for guarding your yucca plants from these furry pests.

Mealy Bugs

• If you notice white, fuzzy balls at the base of your yucca plant, you may have mealy bugs. These white pieces of fuzz are where they lay their eggs, and they are often the first sign of a mealy bug infestation. They also leave behind a liquid honeydew substance that in texture is similar to molasses. If left alone, sooty mold will gradually grow on the honeydew. The mealy bugs themselves are small and brownish; and although it is possible to spot them, their nests and honeydew secretions are the more noticeable signs of their presence. The best way to get rid of these bugs is to apply a good insecticide.

Scales

• Scales are typically brown in color and sometimes look like part of the plant. These insects suck sap and feed on the plant tissue of leaves and stems, causing the supportive plant structure to deteriorate and break down. If left untreated, they will cause the plant to die. You can get rid of scales with insecticide.

Weevils

• The Yucca Weevil can bore into the leaves and bark of a yucca plant, destroying vital tissue and leaving it vulnerable to the invasion of other pests and diseases. If you don't spot these shiny black weevils on your own, you might detect their presence by the deterioration of the plant. Over time, exposure to weevils will end with the yucca plant weakening and collapsing in on itself. Destroy weevils by killing them individually when they appear and applying a good insecticide.

Thrips

• Thrips are yellow or brownish in color and tiny in size. You may have trouble spotting them, but you'll know they're there if you notice a silvery streaking of the leaves they feed on. The leaves may have holes and they may change in shape, appearing to be wilted or crumpled. Thrips carry tomato spotted wilt virus, which can be dangerous for yuccas. Neem oil and insecticidal soaps have been known to help with the control of thrips; but to completely eliminate them, you will need an insecticide.