LITTLE BUGGER
Mealybugs are soft-bodied pests that appear as small, white, cotton-like fluffs on stems, leaf joints, or even on the undersides of leaves.
They enjoy feasting on your plant’s sap, often leaving a sticky residue called honeydew. This honeydew can also become a breeding ground for mold or ants.
If you notice tiny fluffy spots or sticky, shiny areas, chances are your plant has a mealybug problem!
REMOVAL METHODS
PATIENCE IS KEY
Mealybugs multiply fast and can easily hop onto neighboring plants if left unnoticed. Consider isolating the infested plant until the mealybugs are fully dealt with.
Select one method and give it a little time. If the bugs are still hanging around, try another.
RINSE WITH WATER
- Take the plant to a sink, shower, or outside.
- Gently spray the leaves (top and underside) with lukewarm water to knock the mealybugs off.
- Repeat every few days until the mealybugs are gone.
PRUNE AWAY
If a pest infestation gets out of control, sometimes you have to literally cut your losses.
- Carefully trim any plant parts that are heavily covered in mealybugs.
- Bag up the clippings and dispose in the trash - do NOT compost!
- Follow up with another removal method to target any stragglers.
ALCOHOL + COTTON SWAB
- Dip a cotton ball or swab in 70% isopropyl alcohol and gently wipe away mealybugs.
- Always spot-test first to make sure the alcohol does not harm or burn your plant.
- Rinse off alcohol before placing in direct sun to avoid leaf burn.
NEEM OIL SOLUTION
Please read our Heads Up! on neem oil before using this method:
You will need:
- a clean spray bottle
- 1 tspn Neem Oil
- 1/2 tspn unscented castile soap
- 4 cups water
Combine all ingredients in the spray bottle and shake to combine. Spray the mixture on the top and bottom of the leaves.
Apply every 7 days until the mealybugs are gone. Due to this being a natural product, it can take some time.
BENEFICIAL INSECTS
If you can, introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs or lacewings to your plants. They naturally prey on mealybugs.
(This works best for outdoor plants or greenhouses.)
