Mealybugs are one of the most annoying pests of indoor plants. It hides in the axils of the leaves, sucks out the juice and leaves behind a white cotton wool-like coating, similar to cotton wool. If measures are not taken, the plant weakens, the leaves turn yellow, and flowering stops.
You can cope with it without toxic insecticides. A product that is found in almost every bathroom – medical alcohol – is sufficient.
Alcohol dehydrates insects and destroys their waxy coating, causing them to die upon first contact. However, it does not harm most plants if used carefully.
How to prepare the solution:
- Mix 1 part rubbing alcohol 70% with 1 part water.
- Add 1-2 drops of liquid soap – it helps the solution better coat the insects.
- Stir.
How to use:
- Pour the mixture into a spray bottle or apply to a cotton swab.
- Carefully treat all affected areas, especially the leaf axils, petioles and stem base.
- After 2-3 hours, wipe the leaves with a soft, damp cloth to remove any remaining pests and plaque.
- Repeat the treatment after 5-7 days to destroy any hatched larvae.
Within two days you will notice: the white coating disappears, and the plant looks more vigorous. Complete relief usually takes 1-2 weeks with regular treatment.
Question and answer:
Why is it important to add soap?
Soap lowers surface tension, allowing the solution to better adhere to the waxy coating of the scale insect.
Is alcohol safe for orchids and ficus plants?
For orchids and other sensitive plants, it is better to use a cotton swab with a minimal amount of solution, avoiding getting it on the flowers.
