Question
i have ponytail palm with white fuzzy things on the leaves, if i cut the stalk will the bugs still be in the soil?
thank you

Answer
Carol,

Why do you want to cut the stalk off? The bugs are mealy bugs. Yes the bugs could still be in the soil. You can take the plant outdoors and wash the plant with a hose set on a high pressure stream of water to wash the insects off. Then water the plant with a mix of 50% rubbing alcohol and 50% water. Use this mix each time you water the plant for a month and it will kill any insects in the soil.

Your other option would be to go to Walmart or Lowes and get a product called Bayer Protect and Feed Tree and Shrub Insecticide. You mix it with water and the plant takes it up through the leaves and it kills the insects as they chew on the plant. It is a systemic insecticide.It is very effective and keeps insects off the plant for about a year. It costs about $20.00. It will protect a lot of plants. Follow the instructions for potted plants.

If you have more questions feel free to write again. Good luck!

Darlene