Pachira Aquatica

Botanical Newbie · #1 January 27th, 2007, 02:51 AM

Hello there! I have recently bought a beautiful Pachira Aquatica. However, I suspect something is munching at the leaves. I have been observing and personally I don't think it has deteriorated since I bought it, although my husband thinks something is still nibbling away. Any ideas on what it might be or how to manage it?

Thanks in advance!

**Rima** · #2 January 27th, 2007, 03:53 AM

Are there tiny 'bites' out of the leaves or not? If you can't see any bugs on close inspection, and there isn't a pattern of bites, and you think it looks healthy, don't do anything, but if there is a problem, an insecticide for houseplants might help, but I'd be very careful what you use and follow directions on the label, or else just mix up 1-2 drops of dishwashing liquid in a liter or so of water, and spray it on - less chance of harming the plant. But use a magnifying glass to really examine it all - after dark with a spotlight turned on just before you look, so you can see anything that might be nibbling.

Botanical Newbie · #3 January 27th, 2007, 04:14 AM

Thanks Rima - this is really helpful. The plant was bought for me and arrived with definate bite marks, however I don't think they've increased so I'm wondering if the shop it was bought from had already dealt with problem before it was bought? My husband however thinks the bites have increased. I will definately inspect in dark tonight as you suggested. In all other respects the plant is positively blooming!