Mealybugs
CLASSIFICATION
Animalia, Insecta, Hemiptera, Sternorrhyncha, Scale insects
ABOUT
Mealybugs are sap-sucking insects acting as a vector for several plant diseases and secreting a powdery wax layer as protection.
How to treat?
- Biological
Remove pests mechanically. Rub the pests off with alcohol, or use a strong stream of water to remove the insect.
Apply ecological products for plant protection (e.g. insecticidal soap, neem oil, natural pyrethrum).
Introduce natural enemies - predators, parasites, or diseases (e.g. ladybird predator Cryptolaemus montrouzieri, lace bugs, lacewings).
Isolate the infested plant immediately to avoid the infestation from spreading.
- Chemical
If necessary, apply insecticide. Due to the wax shield of the insects, it might not be very effective.
If necessary, apply insecticide containing deltamethrin (GHS06: Toxic, GHS09: Environmental hazard).
If necessary, apply insecticide containing cypermethrin (GHS07: Harmful, GHS09: Environmental hazard).
If necessary, apply insecticide containing lambda-Cyhalothrin (GHS06: Toxic, GHS07: Harmful, GHS09: Environmental hazard).
- Disease prevention
Remove the top inch of dirt from the pot and replace it with fresh soil.
Inspect new plants for signs of an infestation. Inspect the underside of leaves and stem joints.
Disinfect tools, infected flower pots, and hands to avoid disease transmission.