Q.Sago Palm and Boginvella (Sp)
Hello, I have two questions. I have a Sago which is covered in sticky white mess. . . not sure if it’s thrips or mealy bugs. How do I rid my plant of this, as this is a recurring issue? Also, my Boginvellia (sp) is not blooming. Its leaves are green but not solid green. I do fertilize and the bush is rather big. Thanks for your help.
Certified GKH Gardening Expert
It sounds like mealy bugs on the sago. This article will help with that:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/mealybugs-white-residue-on-plants-leaves.htm
If it is a reoccurring problem, this normally is an indicator that the plant is under stress. Make sure that the plant is being properly watered, has the right amount of light and is not root bound. These are the most common stressors.
For the bougainvillaea, I suspect that it may lack phosphorous or have too much nitrogen. Try giving it some bone meal to balance the phosphorous back out. This article will have some other suggestions:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/environmental/plant-not-blooming.htm
