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| Mealybug on orchid |
Symptoms:
Mealybugs are sucking insects that attack
any part of the plant but tend to stay tucked away at the junction of leaf and stem.
Severe infestations cause chlorotic areas to appear on the leaves, which may darken,
causing the leaf to yellow and drop prematurely.
Treatment:
If there are only a few mealybugs, use a Q tip dipped in
isopropyl alcohol or toothbrush dipped in a pesticide like Malathion, Orthene
or Safer Soap (used per label instructions) to physically remove the mealybugs.
For more severe infestations, apply the pesticide and repeat the application 2
weeks later. Be sure to spray all plant surfaces, particularly the undersides
of leaves and leaf axils.
Prevention:
Remove old leaf and flower sheaths to eliminate hiding
places and allow easy inspection. Check new plants carefully before adding to
the growing area.
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