"Eric G" wrote in message
...
Thanks Eyebright for this info. I appreciate it.

Eric


On Mon, 13 Dec 2004 00:22:51 +0000, Eyebright
wrote:


Eric G Wrote:
I have a mealybug problem with my houseplants and wonder if someone
can offer some suggestions on how to get rid of the pests?


theres no easy way to get rid of these ...if painting with whatever you
used is too time-consuming ( we used to paint with meths)...then take a
deep breath anf throw out all plants you suspect to be contaminated
before the problem spreads even more.

on the subject of bio-control ...its the larva stage of ladybirds that
do the eating...you need to hope the adults lay eggs on the infested
plants...wont work in a house though...

finally you presumably brought these pests in on a new plant...check
check check new plants for pests and diseases ..especially the
underside of new growth ...before placing them among your treasures.


Biological control of mealy bug is tricky as the Australian ladybirds they
use seem to have return tickets on Quantos and fly off as soon as released,
I did have some success when I enclosed the affected plants in net curtains.
regular soft soap sprays and watering in of a systemic like provado also
help but the only way to eradicate the problem is to be vigilant and remove
them manually (I use an old toothbrush) this is the time of year to
carefully inspect the plants and their surrounds for the white fluffy egg
masses these and hibernating adults will be found in all sorts of cracks and
crevices, especially where stems touch or leaves touch stems. severely
reducing the plant size rather than destroying it is a compromise that cuts
down the work involved.

--
Charlie, gardening in Cornwall.
http://www.roselandhouse.co.uk
Holders of National Plant Collection of Clematis viticella (cvs)