Question
money plant
Hello,
The last few months my money plant has been loosing leaves. I put it in a different window now in NE facing window with am light, and began giving it mists a few times a week. This did help and I saw new leaves sprouting up. However I recently noticed that in addition to leaves dropping, the leaves are also sticky, and there are small brown spots on the leaves. The spots are on about half of the leaves, and are located on various parts of the leaf. I also notice something weird which I can only describe it as looking similar to a spider web, but not exactly. The thread feels sticky and is located on a few different parts of the plant.
Thank you so much for your help.
Desiree
AnswerHi Desiree,
Let's start with the correct identification of your plant. It is a Schefflera arboricola, not a Money Plant. Without the photo you provided, I would not have been able to tell you that. So thank you for including the photo.
The raised brown spots on the leaves are scale insects. Underneath their hard shells they suck on the leaves and secrete the sticky substance called honeydew. The webs may be from household spiders or from spider mites.
To treat these pests, mix up a solution of 5 parts water, 1 part rubbing alcohol and a squirt of liquid dish soap. Then spray this solution on all leaf and stem tissues of the plant until they are dripping wet. Thorough coverage of all surfaces is the key to successfully getting rid of these critters. After this thorough drenching, wipe the hard shells off with a soft cloth.
Schefflera arboricolas do best on that NE windowsill that you mentioned. Keep the pot small and water only when the top quarter of the soil feels dry. Misting does no harm, but it is not necessary.
Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions.
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Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NY
