Knowledgebase

Insects #925497

Asked March 05, 2026, 6:20 PM EST

Best way to permanently get rid of mealybugs on an indoor plant.

Erie County Ohio

Expert Response

I have had those critters in the past and you have several options. If really bad, throw the plant out. Next option is to spray warm water if possible on the plant. Not sure how big it is or if it can take water on the leaves. If i have a plant outside for the summer i spray it 3 weeks in a row with biological soap. That may be an option for indoors. Next, use a cotton ball or q tip  and use alcohol on the critters being sure to get into the stem where the leaves are located. They tend to reproduce fast and as the weather warms you may see their reproductive cycle accelerate. It takes time to get rid of them and you want to be sure they don't infect your other house plants so moving the plant unto isolation is a good idea. Final idea, as the weather warms, take the plant outdoors and spray a biological soap on it. That needs to be sprayed weekly. Bring the plant back indoors after it dries and repeat weekly. Spider mites are also a problem for house plants and you will find the biological spray to work on them. 
Good luck. 
An Ask Extension Expert Replied March 06, 2026, 7:29 AM EST

Loading ...