Dropped leaves and speckled dots indicate a thrips infestation. Luckily, there is plenty you can do about itWhat’s the problem?
The leaves of my 40-year-old rubber plant are speckled with tiny black dots, turning yellow, and many are dropping off. New shoots are still growing, but the older leaves continue to fall.Diagnosis
The black dots you’re seeing are most likely thrips droppings. These tiny insects puncture the leaf surface to drain sap, resulting in silvery streaks, mottled patches, curling and eventual leaf drop. They thrive in warm, dry conditions and are easily introduced when plants are moved outdoors. Once inside, they spread rapidly, particularly on mature, leafy specimens. Their damage is often mistaken for nutrient deficiencies or sun scorch, but the telltale sign is the combination of silvery streaks with tiny black specks. Continue reading...
Thursday 30 October 2025
.theguardian - 2 days ago
Houseplant clinic: what’s wrong with the leaves on my rubber plant?
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