Mealybugs are one of the most common pests affecting cacti. These small, soft-bodied insects appear as white, cotton-like clusters and feed on plant sap, weakening your cactus and potentially causing rot if left untreated. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get rid of them and protect your plants.
🔍 Step 1: Confirm It’s Mealybugs
Look for these signs:
- White, cottony clusters in joints, crevices, or around roots
- Yellowing, puckering, or stunted growth
- Sticky residue (honeydew) or sooty mold
Check both above-ground and root zones, especially during repotting.
🧼 Step 2: Isolate and Clean
- Isolate the infected plant to prevent spread.
- Physically remove visible mealybugs using a cotton swab dipped in 70% isopropyl alcohol. This dissolves their protective coating and kills them on contact.
- Rinse the cactus gently with lukewarm water or spray with a hose to knock off any remaining bugs.
🧪 Step 3: Apply Treatment
Choose one or more of the following:
Option A: Alcohol Spray
- Mix 70% isopropyl alcohol with water (1:1 ratio) in a spray bottle.
- Spray all plant surfaces and repeat every 3–5 days until gone.
Option B: Insecticidal Soap
- Use a ready-made cactus-safe insecticidal soap.
- Spray thoroughly, especially hidden areas. Repeat every 5–7 days.
Option C: Systemic Insecticide (for severe infestations)
- Apply a product containing Imidacloprid or Dinotefuran (e.g., Safari or Bonide Systemic Granules).
- These are absorbed through the roots and kill pests as they feed.
- Use cautiously and follow label instructions.
🌱 Step 4: Treat the Roots (If Needed)
If mealybugs are found on roots:
- Unpot the cactus and rinse the roots.
- Soak the root ball in diluted systemic insecticide or 70% alcohol for 10 minutes.
- Let the plant dry for 2–3 days before repotting in sterile, well-draining soil.
🔁 Step 5: Monitor and Repeat
- Inspect weekly for 1–2 months after treatment.
- Repeat sprays or soil treatments if you see signs again.
- Always quarantine new plants for at least 2 weeks.
🧯 Prevention Tips
- Avoid overwatering — mealybugs thrive in moist conditions.
- Keep your growing area clean and dust-free.
- Use sticky traps or neem oil occasionally to deter pests.
- Sterilize pots and tools between uses.
Have questions or a persistent infestation? Contact us here or message us during our live sales — we’re happy to help keep your cacti healthy and pest-free!
