Mealybugs and the prevention of spread to other plants

[DesignerofBeauty]

Hello All,

I am wondering how to prevent mealybug infestation to other plants. I know to repot the infested orchid and spray the roots and entire plant with imidicloprid, three times at weekly intervals. I will also quarantine the plant. This is based on the information I have read on this forum.

Here's the question I have: I had a mealybug infestation on another plant a while back. It was my maxillaria scalariformis. I mixed a solution of 1 part 90% isopropyl alcohol to 1 part water. I also added a few drops of neem oil and dawn dish detergent. The treatment killed the plant. I threw it out and purchased another plant. I did not see any signs of infestation on any other plants. I thought I was in the clear.

Lo and behold this AM I found a stinker on my cattleya. I plan on treating the plant with imidicloprid this time. I haven't used a chemical pesticide like this before. I have two tiny dogs, must I spray outside? Or can I spray just in my shower?

To prevent infestation to my other plants, should I spray them as well? I'm afraid of killing them in the process and would rather use as little pesticide as needed. Should I spray my window area with isopropyl alcohol?

If anyone has any input, I would greatly appreciate it!

[Subrosa]

You can spray the plants in the shower, just give them time to dry. The soap and alcohol method can actually be very effective if it's done properly. The following procedure works well:
1. Spray plants with imidacloprid
2. Use the soap and a bit of water to wash your hands thoroughly.
3. Toast your victory over the pests with the alcohol of your choice.
4. Repeat as needed, but don't drive afterwards.

Fwiw, imidacloprid is the active ingredient in two very popular anti-flea medications for dogs, Advantix and Advantus, which are respectively a topical and an ingested treatment. It is however toxic to cats.

[jcec1]

I've used imidacloprid successfully to treat mealybugs and just sprayed in the shower and let the plant dry. I have a dog and she is still here and well

[DesignerofBeauty]

Thank you so much for your help! Please let me know if this should work:

https://www.lowes.com/pd/BAYER-ADVAN...E&gclsrc=aw.ds

If so, should I use the same concentrate to my seemingly non affected plants?

[Ray]

Originally Posted by DesignerofBeauty

Thank you so much for your help! Please let me know if this should work:

https://www.lowes.com/pd/BAYER-ADVAN...E&gclsrc=aw.ds

If so, should I use the same concentrate to my seemingly non affected plants?

I cannot speak for the particular product, but you must ALWAYS use pesticides at the full recommended strength for the plant and pest.

[DeaC]

St. Augustine Orchid Society - North Florida Orchid Growing may be helpful.