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Philedendrum plant has white powder spots #872767

Asked June 12, 2024, 10:29 AM EDT

Wondering what to do for plant with white powder spots. Is this a fungus? What would it be due to (type of water, type of office--closed space at work?) What is the remedy? Should I wipe it off? Will this solve the problem? Thanks!

Ramsey County Minnesota

Expert Response

Hello Jen, happy to help.

The cottony masses are evidence of mealybugs, a soft-scale insect that feeds on the sap of plants. It's difficult to clear up at this stage. I would, first, make sure it's nowhere near any other plant because their nymphs are more mobile and can fall or crawl to other plants close by. Another sign of mealybugs is the sticky substance found on lower leaves, the pot, and even on the floor. It's called honeydew, a secretion produced by mealybugs as they consume plant sap. It's simply sugar and easily washed clean.

Here is information about mealybugs and what you can do to eradicate them: https://extension.umn.edu/yard-and-garden-news/mealybugs#sources-3508560

Good-luck!

eGardener Replied June 15, 2024, 5:19 PM EDT

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