Q.How do you get rid of mealybugs on a prayer plant
I recently set my plant outside to get some fresh air and when I brought it back in I noticed a white spots all over the underneath of the leaves and a fuzzy white residue at the joints. I Googled it and found out it was a mealybug infestation. How do I get rid of this without harming the plant? The internet said to spray it with rubbing alcohol but it didn’t say if I should uncurl the leaves to get down inside of them because that seems to be where the majority of the bugs have made their home. Please help.
Certified GKH Gardening Expert
You can usually wash off mealybugs with a jet of water, they dislodge pretty easily. Prayer plant is kind of sensitive so go easy. Another way is to wipe them off with a rag, or with a cotton glove on your hand. If the spaces are too small and tight you can use Q-tips or fashion something appropriate. I don't recommend the alcohol, it may kill mealy bugs but you may be taking a chance on phytotoxicity. You can also use an insecticidal soap or Neem oil.
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/insects/mealybugs-control.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/environmental/phototoxicity-in-plants.htm