Question
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Followup To
Question -
There are small white spots on my jade plant. I can rub off the spots on some of the leaves, but not on others.  The plant appears healthy and continues to grow.  The plant is in an 11" pot, is 12" tall and has 8 individual "trunks (?)" coming out of the soil.  I have had the plant for about 9 months.  The plant receives direct sunlight for part of the day, then indirect as the sun moves.
Answer -
Hi Pam,

If the white spots appear as pores in the surface of the leaves, then those are mineral deposits and are not a cause for concern. However, if your tap is on the hard side, then switch to filtered, distilled or rainwater.

If they have a soft, cottony texture, then they are mealybugs and should be treated with a rubbing alcohol spray.

If they are white patches that leave permanent marks or mars on the leaves, than they are a fungus.

If none of the above seems to apply, perhaps you can e-mail a photo to me at [email protected].

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

Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

Will,
Thanks for your rapid response.  I am not 100% sure which white spots are mine!  My first impression was the mineral deposits, but on close scrutiny I found 2 very small web-like deposits on two of the stems.  Will trying the alcohol spray hurt the plant if the spots are not mealybugs?  If I can try the alcohol spray what proportions do I use, how much do I use(i.e. soak all sufaces vs. light spray) and how often do I use it?
I don't have access to a digital camera, but if you think a picture is necessary I might be able to get someone to lend me a camera.
Thanks,
Pam  

Answer
Hi Pam,

I would use a conservative approach. Mix 4 parts of water with 1 part rubbing alcohol. You don't have to be very precise and you won't need very much. Then use a Q-Tip to dab the two areas where you have seen the whitish deposits. A blemish may remain on the spot, but the web-like deposits should be gone. Then observe your Jade carefully for a few weeks to see if there are any additional deposits to be treated. If they start to proliferate, and I don't think they will, let me know and we can go from there.

The alcohol will not hurt the plant. But if you do spray it, then you should dilute it to a 8:1 ratio and then rinse the alcohol off the Jade before it dries completely.

Will