Pest Control for Begonias

Begonias are perennial plants grown for their eye-catching, colorful blooms. They occasionally experience pests such as mealybugs, aphids, snails, spider mites and whiteflies. Early pest detection and management ensures abundant flowering.

Biological Control

• Most begonia pests have natural enemies that can be released in the garden. Control aphids and mealybugs with ladybird beetles. Eradicate spider mites and whiteflies by releasing lacewings. Control snails with decollate snails.

Chemical Control

• Pesticides are available for just about every type of begonia pest. You should use insecticides as a last resort, however, as they also destroy beneficial insects. The least toxic pesticide options include horticultural oils and insecticidal soap sprays.

Cultural Control

• Avoid cultural conditions that lead to begonia pests. Dry, dusty growing environments attract spider mites and overly wet conditions invite fungus gnats and snails.

Removal and Trapping

• Manually remove visible pests from begonias such as snails. Cut out infested leaves and branches. Spray off smaller pests like aphids, whiteflies, spider mites and mealybugs with water. Use yellow sticky traps to trap flying pests.