Question
I have two palms in my home, and both have been developing white, soft, powder-like substances on the lower parts of the stalks.  I was told it could be mealybugs, but when I looked up mealybugs online, the description didn't quite match to me.  The substance I have is easy to remove with just a paper towel, and the plants are definitely suffering since it has come.  There is much more yellowing of the leaves, the new shoots either won't open or open with very listless and small leaves.  I went to a nursery today and purchased some systemic deinfestation granules that I have put into the soil and also a spray that I have put on as well.  But since I don't think this is mealybugs, I don't know if there is something else I should be doing.

Answer
Hi Mary,

Palms often develop a type of mealybug that leaves a chalky film on the lower stems. I suspect that is what you have. It also appears that you have a serious infestation.

Pesticides are hazardous to you, your family, your pets, and the environment so I don't usually recommend them. However, that is your choice. If you tell me the active ingredients I may be able to tell you how effective and dangerous they are likely to be. Systemics are somewhat safer than sprays because they are not inhaled. However, systemics are more dangerous if there are toddlers or pets about that play in the soil.

A solution of rubbing alcohol, water and liquid soap can be very effective as long as you thoroughly drench all leaf and stem surfaces so that you get even the mealybugs that you cannot see. It is particularly important to get in the crevices where the stems emerge.

Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions. If you would like to e-mail me some photos, I may be able to provide some additional insights.

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Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

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