Hello everyone,

Wanted some help identifying a pest for my dad. His dieffenbachia is COVERED. I figured spider mites but just wanted someone to help me verify.

I would not say spider mites which leave a webbing that I do not see on the pic, I believe these are aphids. The problem with aphids is not only they suck the plants juices but worst carry diseases, such as the mosaic virus. You can spray with say neem oil or insecticidal soap, then simply wash the plant over the sink if possible but it seems from the leaf discoloration the damage is already done. Plants who have viruses can't be cured and need to be destroyed, I am sorry...

Bump

Tisha; What does bump mean?

LastBlow; thank you for the comment! I believe the discolouring is just the reflection of the colours of the leaf shining through. While it was a bad infestation I helped him clean all the leaves off and sprayed it down and we have been keeping an eye on it. Lots of new growth so I won't be giving up on the plant just yet.. I can't give up that easily!!

Here's an updated photo:

You have such a beautiful dieffenbachia. I `bumped` your thread back up on the list to help get you an answer.
Really don't think the underside of the leaf shows a virus.
Mealy bug, could be the insect.

My tablet is messing up
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