Mealybugs are covered with a white, powdery substance. The insects live off plant sap.
Mealybug – Mealybugs are unarmoured scale insects (Pseudococcus). These insects are covered with a white, powdery substance. The insects live off plant sap. This slows down the plant’s growth and causes leaf deformities and discoloration. Mealybugs are common indoors (houseplants) and in greenhouses and conservatories. Often fungus (sooty mold) develops on the honeydew secreted by mealybugs.
The eggs of the mealybug are sticky and stick easily to clothing. Therefore, the mealybug spreads mostly through humans.
Parasitoid wasps, ladybirds, predatory beetles and lacewings are among the natural enemies of mealybugs.
Where to find
- Green house
- Houseplants
- Vegetable plot and ornamental garden
Control
Control it is difficult. In summer, a hard jet of water can wash away most of the mealybugs; unfortunately, this is often not without damage to the plant.
For houseplants: spirit or alcohol diluted half with water makes mealybugs disappear. A hefty amount of table salt dissolved in water also works. However, each individual mealybug must be touched up with this mixture, for example with a cotton swab or brush soaked in the solution.
Prevention
Prevent infection with mealybugs by preventing infection through clothing.
For outdoors: parasitoid wasps and ladybugs are the natural enemies; provide an insect-friendly environment.
