Question
QUESTION: My problem: I've noticed that the leaves of my Pachira plant are being eaten - I suspect earwigs or caterpillars.

I've tried looking for them but can't seem to spot them.

Three days ago, I used a bug spray (called Trounce) and sprayed my entire plant. But I'm not sure if it's working.

Today, I've applied some Insectigone on the top portion of the soil. Insectigone is a type of insect bait/killer.

If this doesn't help, my next step is to change the soil; and then maybe spray some caterpillar pesticide on the plant.

My question: Any other suggestions you might have? (I also found a crumpled leaf with white-coloured webbing underneath it. It almost looks like cotton; does this give you any clue as to what my pests might be?)  

Many thanks!

Milton Kiang

ANSWER: Milton:
Earwigs are not commonly considered a pest of living plants, but more of a consumer of organic matter, so earwigs may be a stretch for your pest. Caterpillars should be seen on the plant, so be sure to look closely.

Is your plant indoors this time of year? If so, could there be any other "pests" chewing on the leaves? Any critters in the house or sunroom?

Steve

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leaf   QUESTION: Hi Steve,

The plants are kept indoors. I do have two cats but I doubt they could reach that high to nibble on the leaves, nor have I ever seen them climb on the plant. The plant is about 4-5 feet high. I've attached an image of a bitten leaf - see attached image. What do you think?

Also, isn't the white silk-like substance underneath a leaf an indication of caterpillars? (Though I have yet to find them as hard as I tried looking.)  

Many thanks again!

ANSWER: Milton:
This area shown in your image does not resemble an animal bite to me. The eaten areas are more rounded rather a jagged edge that one may expect from teeth. Are you new leaves that are being chewed or has it stopped.

Is the plant strictly an inside plant or is it kept outside during warm periods?

Some caterpillars feed at night and hide during the day, making them hard to find.  

Steve

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Hi Steve,

The plant is kept strictly indoors. Do you suspect caterpillars?

If so, what's the best way to get rid of them? Do you need to see them in order to get rid of them?

Also, in your above question about new leaves - it wasn't clear from my reading of it, do you mean to ask whether any new leaves are being chewed? If so, I'd have to say that new leaves aren't being chewed, to my observation.

Many thanks!

Milton

Answer
Milton:
Sorry if I was confusing.  I was wondering if you have seen any new damage that would indicate the problem is still on going.

It would be easiest and least expensive to find the insect and dispose of it, especially if you are dealing with one plant. I would suspect that it would be large enough to see without any magnification.  It may just be hiding on a stem or on the soil.  From your description, it doesn't sound like there is a large population that cannot be handled by "hand" picking and destroying the offending insect such as a beetle or caterpillar.

Steve