How to Rid Plants of Egg Sacs

Check for egg sacs weekly beginning in the spring after the last frost, or as soon as you see evidence of adult insect activity around your plants. Pay special attention to the undersides of leaves and along the stems where leaves or lateral stems connect. Some eggs look like egg sacs; others, such as those of mealybugs, look like a cottony white fuzz.

Spray all parts of the plants with water to dislodge the egg sacs as well as the adult insects. Rub along the leaves if necessary to loosen the eggs. Repeat the spray weekly or as needed when egg sacs reappear.

Spray with chemical sprays weekly or as needed if the water spray is not sufficient to control the pests. A premixed spray containing Bacillus thuringiensis, or Bt, will kill worm eggs. A premixed insecticidal soap spray will control mites, aphids and other sucking insects. To use either spray, apply the spray to coat the tops and undersides of leaves and stems. The sprays wash off in rain, so apply them on a dry day. Wear gloves to avoid contact with the spray.

Dip the end of a cotton swab in isopropyl alcohol and rub the tip along stems or under leaves over the egg sac to destroy egg sacs individually. Repeat weekly if new egg sacs appear.