Question
I have an indoor orange tree that has developed some sort of white cottony looking stuff on it. It started out of nowhere, but seems to be growing every where rapidly.  I have it in a room where it gets light from every direction but the north, I have changed nothing about its care forever.  It is about 41/2 to 5 feet tall. It had oranges on it this past season, and was very healthy.  What could this be, and will it affect my other indoor plants?

Answer
Melissa,

It is mealy bugs, an insect. It can move to other plants. I would immediately inspect the other plants. You can immediately put a bottle of rubbing alcohol in a spray bottle full strength and spray them. It will kill them but you have to be very thorough and have to respray twice a week for a couple of months to kill any that hatch from eggs. Then you will have to watch closely for any new sighs of insects.

The other more permanent solution after your first alcohol spray if it is not blooming at this time is a systemic insecticide. I use Bayer Advanced 12 Month Tree & Shrub Protect & Feed. You should be able to find it at Lowes, Home Depot or Menards but you might want to call first this time of year. It costs approximately $20.00. It will protect the tree against insects for a year and you should follow the instructions on the bottle for potted plants.

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

Darlene