Question
I had 2 china doll plants I had to destroy because the plants were infested with mealy bugs.  (Really disgusting!)  These plants are rare and expensive.  I love the china doll plants, but now I'm affraid to buy them.  Please tell me how to PREVENT these bugs from coming on the plants.  Thank you.

Sue

Answer
Hi Sue,

I understand your frustration. Unfortunately, there is no guaranteed method to prevent mealybug on any plant, let alone China Doll. However, there are some things you can do to minimize pest infestations.

First, purchase your plants from a reliable plant retailer, prefereably a garden shop or nursery that specializes in plants. Big box discounters buy plants cheaply from growers who save money by not taking adequate pest preventive measures.

Before you purchase a plant, check it very carefully for signs of pests. Look on the undersides of leaves and in the tiny spaces where leaf stems attach to main stems.

After you purchase your plant, spray it very thoroughly with a solution of 8 parts water, 1 part rubbing alcohol and a bit of liquid dish soap. Be sure to cover all leaf and stem surfaces until they are drippng wet.

Inspect all of your houseplants for pests. If you find any, treat them promptly and thoroughly so that they do not spread to your other plants.

Inspect all of your plants very carefully once per month for pests. Treating plant pests is much easier and more successful when you catch and treat the critters early.

Finally, plants that are healthy and stress-free are less susceptible to pest problems. So be sure to keep your plants healthy by providing proper light, water, etc.

I have written an article on identfying and treating plant pests that I will e-mail to you if you send a request to me at the address below.

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

You can E-mail me directly at: [email protected]

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