Hi everyone!
I’m in a panic, my beloved succulent collection is under attack by white, cottony pests that I think are mealybugs! I’ve tried wiping them off with water, but they keep coming back. I’ve heard about using rubbing alcohol or neem oil, but I’m not sure how to apply them safely.
Discussion Points:
- What’s the most effective natural remedy for mealybugs?
- How do you prevent infestations from spreading to other plants?
- Is neem oil worth the hype, or are there better DIY solutions?
- Are there specific plants that attract mealybugs more than others?
- Should I just toss heavily infested plants to save the rest?
Help! I don’t want to lose my jade plants or snake plants. Any advice is appreciated!
Rubbing alcohol saved my herbs! Dip a cotton swab in 70% alcohol and dab it directly on the bugs. Kills them on contact! @PlantLover99, have you tried this yet?
Yes! But for big infestations, mix alcohol with water (1:1) and spray. @PlantLover99, avoid sunlight after spraying, it can burn leaves!
Neem oil works, but you HAVE to be consistent. Mix 2 tsp neem + 1 tsp dish soap in a quart of water. Spray every 3 days. @PlantLover99, patience is key, it took me 2 weeks!
Isolate infected plants asap! Mealybugs spread like wildfire. @SucculentQueen, how do you disinfect pots after an outbreak?
Ladybugs are natural predators! I released 50 into my greenhouse, they devoured the mealybugs. @PlantLover99, ever tried biological control?
Avoid overwatering! Mealybugs love damp soil. check your drainage and let the soil dry between waterings. Prevention > cure!
Tried garlic spray, total fail. The bugs laughed at me. 
@NeemOilFanatic, does your neem mix leave a sticky residue?
Garlic only works as a deterrent, not a killer. @PlantLover99, add cayenne pepper to your neem mix for extra punch!
My monstera is COVERED in fluff. @PlantDoc, should I prune the worst leaves? Or is it too late?
Heavily infested plants? Toss ’em. Mealybugs hide in roots too. inspect roots, if they’re coated in wax, it’s game over.