How to Treat Mealy Bugs on Bromeliads

Mealy bugs are one of the most common bromeliad pests. They suck life juices from the plant and reduce its vigor and ability to thrive. Mealy bugs also secrete mold that attracts ant pests onto bromeliad foliage. You can prevent a small outbreak from raging into a full-blown infestation with some common, non-toxic household products.

Things You'll Need

Rubbing alcohol
Cotton swabs

Insecticidal soap

Instructions

- 1
  Inspect your bromeliad every day for the presence of mealy bugs. Look for tiny white ovals that look cottony. Check especially well where the leaves attach to the stem.
- 2
  Dip a cotton swab in rubbing alcohol. Touch it directly to a mealy bug. The pest will soon die.
- 3
  Treat the bromeliad with insecticidal soap. Coat all surfaces of the plant thoroughly. Follow the package instructions carefully.
- 4
  Rinse the soap from the bromeliad’s foliage thoroughly 24 hours following treatment.
- 5
  Repeat weekly until the mealy bugs are gone.
- 6
  Provide your bromeliad with excellent air circulation to help prevent mealy bug infestations.

How to Grow Kalanchoe Orgyalis

What Should I Not Plant Close to a Retaining Wall?

Growing Perennials