AT A GLANCE
How to remove mealybugs:
- collect: effective method at the beginning of a pest infestation
- spirit: to combat stubborn sap suckers
- soft soap: as a milder alternative to alcohol
- plant manure: support plant health at the same time
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collect
In the early stages, this method is the most effective action you can take on houseplants. Large-leaved orchids in particular are easy to clean with a cloth. Use a cotton swab for mealybugs hiding in inaccessible areas like leaf axils. Snap off parts of plants with clear signs of damage and dispose of them. This allows the plant to recover faster. Place the affected crop in a bright place with normal humidity to prevent re-infestation.
spirit
Mix ten milliliters of denatured alcohol with one liter of water and spray the affected parts of the plant with this one percent solution. You should brush sensitive plants such as orchids instead. If the mealybugs come into contact with the agent, their protective outer skin dissolves. The alcohol penetrates the organism so that the lice die. To increase the effect, add the same amount of paraffin oil.
soft soap
A mixture of soap and water is a little less aggressive. Add about 15 grams of potassium soap to a liter of lukewarm tap water. Potassium lye attacks the pests' protective armor, causing them to dry up. In the case of an acute infestation, repeat the measure every two days until there is an improvement.
plant manure
For a garlic manure you need 50 grams of garlic cloves. The basis for a nettle decoction is 200 grams of fresh herb. Make a broth from oregano with 100 grams of fresh leaves.
preparation
Pour a liter of boiling water over the remedy of your choice and let the brew stand for about an hour. After it has cooled, strain off the plant parts and place the liquid in a spray bottle. You can spray these broths directly on the colonies every two days. The funds also have a plant-strengthening effect.
