Mealybugs are here! Look on the tips, stems, and undersides of the leaves for these white insects clustered together. If they go unnoticed for a short period of time , they will produce a protective cottony barrier over their bodies to protect themselves. Many times we hear “I have a white fungus on my plants”. Insecticidal Soap or Neem Oil can be used to kill these pests. Multiple applications may be needed. Thorough coverage is a must, and I usually recommend spraying once a week for 2-3 weeks to make sure you have killed them all. If you only have a few clusters of them
at the tips of your plants you could smash them with your fingers and rinse, or cut off the affected tips and throw away the bugs in a sealed bag. Be a bug scout. Keep your eyes open and search. These pests usually last most of the summer.
-DeAnna
Sherry Halbrook says
I’ve noticed mealy buys on my Mystic Spires in 3 locations around the house. I am sure what would be safe to use since the bees on always around them.
Jesse says
Hi Sherry – you can use organic Bee Safe 3-in-1 spray to treat for mealy bugs without harming bees. We recommend spraying 3 applications, 1 week apart.