Question
Just noticed that I had mealybugs on my plant. The plant is still blooming w/buds. I removed the bugs that I could see ( 25 or so )Should I wait until the plant is finished w/flowering before I change the potting soil. I already read article about 50/50 blend of alcohol & water. How long do I soak plant in the blend before re potting ?
thank you,
TK

Answer
Hello Theodore,

Yes, wait until the phalaenopsis has finished blooming to repot.  Until then, keep a wary eye out for more mealybugs as they are sure to continue to appear - especially on the underside of leaves.  

I would not recommend soaking it in the 50/50 mix of alcohol/water for very long.  Rather I would suggest thoroughly wiping both the top and bottom of the leaves along with a minute or two dip in the mix before repotting.  If you plan on re-using the pot, be sure to thoroughly clean it also.  

Hope this has helped.

Jim Kawasaki
San Jose, Ca.