Mealy Bugs
There are many different types of Mealy Bug, all favouring the warm, humid conditions that you want to provide your Tropical Plants with.
Long Tailed Mealy Bugs
The particular type that is currently inhabiting my neglected Dendrobium Orchid, is the Long Tailed Mealy Bug, appropriately-named due to its long tail.
Waxy Layers
Similarly to Scale Insects, Mealy Bugs use a waxy layer to protect themselves and their newly hatched offspring, whilst feeding on your plant.
The key to treating your plants is to break down this waxy barrier to expose the Mealy Bugs, but first you must find them all.
Fluffy Pests
Look out for fluffy gatherings of Mealy Bugs near leaf axils, as you can see in this image.
Keep Mealy Bugs in Check
Mealy bugs can be a pain but here is an easy way to keep them in check. If you want to completely overhaul your plant, you will need to change the compost and clean the roots. I’m just going to see how I get on by removing any adults I come across. If the population does not decrease, I’ll take more drastic action.
How to Remove Mealy Bugs
Here is a short video showing you how I remove Mealy Bugs from my Dendrobium Orchid using methylated spirits and a cotton bud.
Prevention is Better than Cure!
Regular ongoing checks will need to be done to monitor the situation.
Mealy Bug prevention is usually straightforward. I let my guard down when I took in an orchid from a friend, but this is no excuse! I should have been more vigilant!
Prevention involves a close eye on your new additions, some regular TLC for your plants and the provision of a healthy, well-balanced environment, which this Dendrobium Orchid has not had!