Question
The houseplants in my kitchen have a white sticky substance on them.  Primarily it is where the stem meets the leaf but it is also on the leaves.  It doesn't seem to have affected the aloe or cactus.  I have cleaned it off as best as possible with white vinegar and water solution.  I have then sprayed the plants with a mixture of water, rubbing alcohol and dish soap.  Do you have any idea what it may be or what else I could do?  I prefer not to use chemicals.  Thank you.

Answer
Hi Liz,

Your plants are infested with ether mealybugs or scale insects. The treatment for both is the same. The recommended treatment is just what you have done! As long as you were very thorough in covering all leaf and stem surfaces with the soap/alcohol spray, then that should eliminate the problem. You might want to repeat the treatment just to be on the safe side.

Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions.

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Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

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