pest_control

Mealybugs on Portulacaria Afra

How to identify and get rid of mealybugs on Portulacaria Afra. Size: 2–4mm.

search

Identifying mealybugs on Portulacaria Afra

White, cottony, waxy masses in leaf axils and on stems. Soft-bodied oval insects inside.

cycle

Life cycle

Females lay 300–600 eggs in cottony masses. Spread by crawlers and on contaminated tools.

warning

Damage to Portulacaria Afra

Sap-sucking causes yellowing and stunting. Heavy infestations can kill plants. Produces honeydew.

healing

How to treat mealybugs on Portulacaria Afra

Dab with rubbing alcohol on cotton bud. Apply insecticidal soap or neem oil. Systemic insecticide for severe cases.

shield

Preventing mealybugs on Portulacaria Afra

Quarantine new plants. Regular inspection. Avoid overfeeding with nitrogen.