Mealybug

Overview

A soft-bodied insect covered in white waxy powder that infests plants. A major pest of houseplants and tropical crops.

Health risks

Not harmful to humans. Severely weakens plants by sucking sap and secreting honeydew that encourages sooty mould.

Signs of infestation

• ✓White cottony masses on stems and leaf joints
• ✓Sticky honeydew on leaves and surfaces below
• ✓Black sooty mould on leaves
• ✓Yellowing and wilting of plants

Prevention

• ✓Inspect new plants carefully before introducing
• ✓Maintain good air circulation around plants
• ✓Avoid over-fertilising with nitrogen
• ✓Quarantine new plants for 2 weeks

Common regions