Aloe vera is considered to be quite robust. It hardly suffers from diseases and is actually only rarely attacked by pests. It is all the worse if your plant is now suffering from it. Fast help is needed.

Mealybugs are conspicuously white and fluffy

Mealybugs can be found on many indoor plants, they seem particularly fond of orchids, cacti and succulents, but also the popular poinsettia and the Ficus benjamini. Therefore, these lice should be controlled as soon as possible before they can spread to other plants.

How can I recognize mealybugs?

There are around 100 species of mealybugs and mealybugs, and they can be found all over the world. A white, greasy coating on the plant is the characteristic sign of an infestation. A blackish coating often appears later, which can be easily wiped off. Then the sooty mold has already settled.

Are there home remedies for mealybugs?

It is best to cut off heavily infested parts of the plant. Then spray the plant with lemon balm spirit or wipe the lice off with alcohol on a cloth. Repeat the chosen measure on several days in a row.

How do I protect my aloe vera from lice in the future?

The prophylaxis against a renewed infestation with mealybugs starts with the purchase of new plants. Always check them carefully for pests. Avoid care mistakes with all indoor plants, because these weaken the plants in question. The same applies to poorly lit locations, dry heating air and fertilizers that are too nitrogenous. To prevent this, fertilize with nettle or horsetail manure from time to time.

The essentials in brief:

  • mostly occur in winter
  • belong to the scale insect family
  • do multiple harm: suck lifeblood, produce poison, secrete honeydew,m, which attracts the sooty mold fungus
  • Isolate affected plants immediately
  • can be treated with home remedies
  • if the infestation is severe, the plant may die
  • Root aphid subspecies: relatively difficult to recognize
  • biological control: lacewings, ladybugs and parasitic wasps

tips

If your aloe vera is obviously suffering, but no pests are visible at first glance, then think of the root aphid. It leaves greasy white marks on the inside of affected flower pots.

Category:

Indoor plants