How to kill white mealybugs? Find out now!

Does anyone know what the white cochineal is? Do you have any idea of the level of threat this little creature can pose?

If you are one of those people who think that to become a 'plant parent' you just have to buy a plant, let it sit in the sun and water it from time to time, I'm sorry to inform you that this is not quite the case!

In addition to the basic care we have already mentioned, it is necessary to worry about fertilization, pruning, weather conditions and another enemy that many people are not even aware of, but which can put the health of any plant at risk.

We are talking about the white cochineal, one of the main threats for those who want to keep a garden – or even a few pots indoors – healthy for longer.

But do you know what white mealybugs mean for plant health? And most importantly, do you know how to get rid of them?

If it depends on us, you are about to discover the answer to these and other questions involving the white cochineal.

What is white cochineal?

Despite its funny name, you shouldn't be fooled by this garden pest. And we'll explain why! Another garden pest that is more common than you might think is the white scale insect.

Known for its white coloration, the white cochineal (Dactylopius coccusesse) is among the types of pests that most harm a garden.

This is because they attack the leaves of unsuspecting plants out there. And the results of these attacks can vary. 

But generally the action of the white cochineal results in problems such as the formation of light-colored spots and even the weakening of the plant itself.

First, small white spots appear on the stems closest to the leaves. Then, the leaves begin to show spots and wilt. Soon after, the plant loses vigor to the point that, in extreme cases and without proper care, it may die. 

How does white mealybug appear on plants?

Unlike what many people who come across the white cochineal for the first time and are not sure of the correct origin of this pest, it is not caused by any type of action of other insects, despite what it may seem.

The attack of white scale insects usually occurs mainly in plants that are subjected to improper environmental and/or nutritional conditions.

Below, we list some situations that can result in the appearance of this garden pest:

Inadequate soil or substrate use

It is no secret that the soil in which the plant is grown is largely responsible for its health. In this case, the presence of inadequate soil or the use of the wrong substrate can directly contribute to the emergence of these enemies.

Insufficient light is something that mealybugs love

Each plant deals with light in a different way. While some need more light, others don't care as much and prefer less light. 

But in both cases, lighting is important for them to live well. And an insufficient amount of light can also cause the appearance of the dreaded white mealybugs.

Nutrient deficiency

Just like us, balance is essential for the plant to develop well. And this includes the nutrients the plant receives. If the plant is lacking certain nutrients, the chances of white scales attacking it increase considerably.

Excessive fertilization

Still on the subject of plant nutrition and balance, it is also important to point out that excess fertilization can be harmful to plants. And depending on the case and the species, you already know, right? White scale insects can appear and threaten the health of your plant.

How to kill white mealybugs and rid your plants of this threat?

As threatening as they may be, the presence of white cochineal can be combated in relatively easy ways when discovered in time. 

Below, we list some of the main ways to get rid of this type of threat!

Cotton with alcohol

Everyone has cotton wool soaked in alcohol at home, right? This combination can help rid your plant of mealybugs.

To do this, you will need to soak the cotton in alcohol and use it to clean the areas affected by the pest. At this point, it is important to make sure that no white mealybugs are left.

Neem oil or mineral oil are great options for combating white mealybugs.

Another alternative for those who want to get rid of this threat are these two types of oils.

They are known for their natural defensive properties that create a kind of layer over the cochineal. This prevents them from breathing and, consequently, causes them to die.

In this case, you can spray a capful of one of these oils dissolved in 1 liter of water. And it is recommended to do this application after watering and later in the afternoon, when the sun is not so strong.

Ethyl alcohol, detergent and hot water is another mixture that combats white cochineal.

This is a special tip for those larger plants – or several plants – that are being attacked by this pest. In this case, you will make a solution with ethyl alcohol, detergent and hot water.

Then just spray this mixture once a week on your plants for a month and you will soon be free of this annoying threat!

And in addition to freeing your plants from the harmful effects of white scale insects, you also benefit in another way. 

This is because, by controlling and eliminating the dreaded cochineal, you will also be preventing the presence of ants.

These insects – which can also cause a lot of damage to any garden or vegetable patch – are usually attracted to the presence of these unwanted pests. In other words, you will be getting rid of more than one threat to your plants!

Conclusion 

With all these tips in hand, it's much easier to deal with the presence of white mealybugs, right? Now, whenever you notice this type of situation on your plants, you'll know how to get rid of them! Just choose one of these tips and that's it!

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