Common Pests of the Aglaonema Modestum

Nematodes

• You may know the nematode, a small, round-body worm, by its common name: roundworm. Some nematodes are beneficial, feeding on bacteria in the soil. Others, such as the root-knot nematode feed on agricultural and ornamental plants. A. modestum, when grown outdoors, is susceptible to soil-borne nematodes that destroy its roots. Above ground symptoms of nematode feeding include yellow leaves, foliage loss and the death of the plant. Since there is no nematicide presently registered for use on ornamental garden plants, prevention is the only course of action. Solarize the soil before planting or, in small settings, remove the top 2 feet of soil and replace it with clean, nematode-free soil.

Mealybugs

• If your A. modestum foliage or stems appear to be sprouting cotton, it has a mealybug infestation. These small, white bugs suck the juices from the plant, causing stunted growth and pale foliage. Large infestations may be challenging to control, so it’s a good idea to check the A. modestum periodically for signs of this pest. Use insecticidal soap spray, according to label instructions, to rid the plant of mealybugs.

Aphids

• The aphid is another pest that feeds on the plant’s juices. The type typically found on indoor grown A. modestum are green, but outdoors you may see black, red, yellow or brown aphids. They tend to group together, usually on the undersides of the plant’s leaves. Use a permethrin-based insecticide on the outdoor A. modestum and insecticidal soap spray on the houseplant. Keeping the foliage clean, by wiping it with a damp cloth occasionally, helps discourage aphid infestations.

Spider Mites

• Spider webs on the A. modestum indicate a spider mite infestation. These pests scrape the leaves to pierce them and then suck the juices. Leaves turn pale and drop from the plant. Spider mite infestations are more prevalent on indoor grown A. modestum as they thrive when the air is dry, as is the case in most homes. Use a miticide containing bifenthrin, according to label instructions. Reapply every week to 10 days, or according to manufacturer’s recommendations.