How to Get Rid of Mealybugs on Succulent Plants

Succulent Garden
Sep 6
2 min read

Mealybugs are tiny, soft-bodied insects that look like small, white, cottony masses on your succulent plants. They can be a major nuisance, feeding on your plant's sap and causing distorted growth. Fortunately, they are relatively easy to get rid of if you act quickly.

Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide to identifying and treating mealybugs.

Step 1: Isolate the Infected Plant

As soon as you spot mealybugs, the first thing you should do is immediately move the infected plant away from your other plants. Mealybugs can spread quickly, so isolating the plant will prevent the infestation from spreading to your entire collection.

Step 2: Check Your Plant Thoroughly

Mealybugs love to hide in crevices. Inspect every part of the succulent, including:

The stem, especially at the base of the plant.
The underside of the leaves.
The spaces between leaves.

Look for the white, cottony masses as well as tiny, slow-moving insects.

Step 3: Choose Your Treatment Method

There are a few effective ways to get rid of mealybugs, depending on the severity of the infestation.

Method 1: Rubbing Alcohol (Best for Small Infestations)

Rubbing alcohol is the most common and effective treatment. It works on contact to dissolve the mealybug's protective outer layer, killing it instantly.

What you need: Rubbing alcohol (70% isopropyl alcohol) and cotton swabs or a spray bottle.
How to apply:
- For a few mealybugs, dip a cotton swab in rubbing alcohol and gently dab it directly on each bug and its cottony mass.
- For a larger infestation, fill a spray bottle with rubbing alcohol and spritz the entire plant, making sure to hit all the hidden spots.

Method 2: Insecticidal Soap (For Larger Infestations)

Insecticidal soap is a great option for widespread problems. It's a non-toxic way to control a variety of soft-bodied pests.

What you need: Commercial insecticidal soap or a mild dish soap.
How to apply:
- Mix the soap according to the package directions. If using dish soap, use just a few drops in a quart of water.
- Thoroughly spray the entire plant, making sure the mixture coats the undersides of the leaves and the stem. Repeat every 5-7 days until the mealybugs are gone.

Step 4: Check for a Comeback

Mealybugs can be persistent. After you treat the plant, check on it daily for the next week to make sure no new bugs have appeared. If you see any, repeat the treatment. It's a good idea to keep the plant isolated for another week or two to be safe.

Prevention is Key

The best way to avoid mealybugs is to keep your succulents healthy. Give them plenty of sunlight, avoid overwatering, and ensure they are planted in well-draining soil. A healthy succulent is more resistant to pests and diseases.