Question
I am developing a problem with my house plants.  More than one variety of plants are affected.  They are in a south facing window.  It appears to be an infestation of some kind.  The pest looks like white cotton on the leaves. The "cotton" becomes larger and in more places with time.  I have been removing them with water and a q-tip, but I appear to be losing the battle.  No insect appears to be moving or flying, but it definitely can spread.  Do you have any advice for me?

Answer
Edie,

You have mealy bugs attacking all your plants. If you cannot take them outdoors you can you can put rubbing alcohol in a spray bottle and spray the entire plant thoroughly making sure you get the fronts & backs of all leaves and the surface of the soil. Repeat the spraying twice a week for 4 weeks.

If you can take them outdoors you should go to a garden center and get an insecticide that is labeled for mealy bugs. Follow the instructions on the bottle to treat the insects and repeat the application at least 2more times.

If you have more questions write again. Good luck.

Darlene