Plant pest spotlight: Mealybugs
While reflecting on what to journal about next, I found myself thinking about what truly impacts people - and what practical advice I can offer to help.
One thing that kept coming to mind? Those sneaky, persistent pests that can wreak havoc on even the most loved plants. Especially now as we’re heading back into the warmer seasons - bring on spring!
So today, I’m spotlighting a common culprit: mealybugs. These pests tend to appear more frequently in the warmer months, when high temperatures create ideal breeding conditions.
If you’ve ever noticed a strange white fuzz (that looks a bit like cotton wool) on your plant and wondered what it was - or what to do about it - this one's for you. Here’s a guide I hope you’ll find helpful: what mealybugs are, how to spot them, and most importantly, how to manage them.
Happy learning, and even happier growing!
Tarryn x
Overview
Mealybugs are slow-moving, unarmored scale insects that feed on plant sap. They tend to gather in clusters - so if you spot one, chances are there are more hiding nearby.
You’ll usually find them on:
Stems and petioles (where the leaf attaches to the stem)
Undersides of leaves
Moist crevices like sheaths or cataphylls
Some species even live in the roots, known as root mealybugs. These pests secrete a white, powdery wax to protect themselves while feeding - and often lay their eggs inside this waxy coating.
Lifecycle & Breeding
The mealybug life cycle moves quickly, especially in warmer conditions:
31 days at 27°C
45 days at 21°C
Each female can lay up to 10 eggs per day, with a lifetime total of up to 500 eggs. Eggs hatch in just 6 days - making early intervention essential.
Management Tips
Mealybugs are tough to control once they’ve settled in, so early detection and consistency are key. They love to hide in crevices and hard-to-reach spots, so take your time inspecting plants carefully.
Step 1: Isolate
The moment you notice them, isolate the affected plant to prevent the infestation from spreading.
Spot Treatment (for light infestations)
Use a cotton bud dipped in diluted methylated spirits or rubbing alcohol (1:1) and gently dab each mealybug. Focus on the undersides of leaves, stem joints, and crevices.
Repeat weekly until the infestation is gone.
Oils & Insecticides (for heavier infestations)
If you’re dealing with a larger outbreak, horticultural oils or insecticidal sprays may be more effective.
Tried-and-true options:
Horticultural oils: Enspray 99, Yates Conqueror Oil
Insecticides: Native Neem, Bioneem, GroSafe Groventive
💡 Tip: Add a drop of Castile soap to help the solution spread across the plant’s surface. Use a small spray bottle for precise application.
Important Precautions
Before using any horticultural oil or insecticide, always:
Dilute according to the label
Wear gloves
Use a face mask while spraying
Work in a well-ventilated area
Mix only what you need for each treatment
Follow label instructions and treatment schedule
Read the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) online
Hot Tip: Check New Plants
Before buying a new plant, inspect it closely for any signs of pests. Once home, give it a gentle bath in tepid water with a dash of Castile soap, making sure to fully drench the foliage. Wipe the leaves dry afterwards.
It’s a small step that can prevent a major headache later.
Fun Fact
Some mealybug species are intentionally farmed in Oaxaca, Mexico. Once matured, they’re harvested, dried, and ground to extract carminic acid—a vibrant crimson dye used in cosmetics, food colouring, paints, and textiles.
I’ll be thinking of this the next time I apply my red lippy 💄
Got questions? I'm always happy to help.
Send me a message any time!
