Question
I have a majesty palm plant I bought in December.  When I purchased the plant, it needed TLC - it only had one strong leaf.  Since that time, it has been doing well.  The plant recently sprouted a large new leaf.  Tonight I noticed a white cottony substance on the spines and the leafs themselves (including the new leaf).  Could this be a mold/mildew?  How do I treat the plant?

Answer
Hi Camille,

White cotton-like masses are most often associated with mealybugs.  You can treat these with rubbing alcohol and cotton swabs.  Dip the cotton swabs in the alcohol and treat the affected areas of the palm.  Once the palm has regained its vigor, place it outdoors where the natural predators can control the mealybug populations.