Houseplant Pests

Question

I have a houseplant that has a white fuzzy looking substance at the base of the leaves where they join the stems. It is also on the underside of several leaves. The pot is in has a stickiness around the edge now. The leaves are also sticky. What is this and how do I get rid of it?

Answer 1

Mealybugs will commonly leave a white residue on plant’s leaves that resemble cotton. You will find this residue mostly on the stems and leaves. This residue is either the egg sacs of the mealybugs or the pests themselves. You may also find that the plant has a sticky residue on it. This is secreted by the mealybugs. Mealybugs look like small, flat oval white spots on plant leaves. They are also fuzzy or powdery looking. Scrape away any white residue and spots on plant leaves. Then, using a solution of 1 part alcohol to 1 part water with some dish soap mixed in, wash down the entire plant. Let the plant sit for a few days and repeat the process. Another mealybug home pest control is to apply neem oil to the plant.