Mealybug

The Mealybug is a tiny oval-shaped insect that feeds on plant material and will infect most of the host plant if not controlled. You will usually find the tiny insects on the underside of leaves and stems and they can be identified by the white powder coating that look like many legs.

They suck on the plant juices and then excrete a honeydew substance that ants are attracted to, so look out for ants too. Once infection sets in, the leaves of the plant usually turn yellow and wilt and if not controlled the plant will eventually die.

These little pests are more often found in warmer growing climates and will affect ornamentals, houseplants and edibles like avocados and many other fruits. Natural predators include ladybirds and lacewings.

Take action

• Prune away growth affected by light infestations and destroy it.

• For bigger infestations it is best to destroy the plant. If that is not viable, quarantine the plants and use an appropriate insecticide immediately.

• Washing your foliage regularly and using a leaf shine with a neem oil base will discourage infestations.

Products on the Market for Controlling Mealybug on Edibles

Chemical:
Efekto Malasol
Efekto Aphicide
Makhro Agro Kemprin
Makhro Agro Koinor
Kombat Karbacure
Kombat Malathion
Organic:
Kirchhoff’s Ludwig’s Insect Spray+
Kirchhoff’s Margaret Roberts Organic Insecticide

On Ornamentals

Chemical:
Efekto Malasol
Efekto Garden Ripcord
Efekto Oleum
Makhro Agro Kemprin
Makhro Agro Koinor
Kombat Garden Insects
Kombat Malathion
Kombat Karbacure
 
Organic:
Kirchhoff’s Ludwig’s Insect Spray+
Kirchhoff’s Margaret Roberts Organic Insecticide
Makhro Agro SK Eco Oil
Makhro Agro Organicide Plus