Although there are only a few pests that cause serious problems to the money tree, you should not underestimate the risk of an infestation by mealybugs or mealybugs. If you do not combat these pests promptly, the money tree may die.
How do I fight mealybugs on the money tree?
To combat mealybugs on the money tree, you should rinse the plant, insulate it and sprinkle insecticide granules on it and use plant sticks. If necessary, use insecticide as a spray and continue treatment for at least two weeks.
That's why mealybugs on money trees are so harmful
Mealybugs or mealybugs don't just suck the moisture out of the leaves. At the same time, they release toxins through their saliva that damage the plant.
They also leave a sticky liquid on the leaves called honeydew. This coating can lead to an infestation of the money tree with sooty mold fungus. There is hardly anything you can do about this fungal disease.
Observe your money tree carefully so that you can detect a mealybug infestation as quickly as possible.
Identifying mealybugs or mealybugs on the money tree
- White spots on the leaves
- white webs on the leaves
- sticky mass on the leaves
- Leaves turn yellow or soft
- Leaves fall off
If the leaves of the money tree turn yellow or even fall off, it is almost too late to save the plant. Be alert if white spots appear on the leaves. Even if some leaves appear to be becoming soft, you should closely inspect money trees for pests.
You can tell whether they are mealybugs by the fact that small white webs form on the leaves, which are somewhat reminiscent of cotton balls. Sticky leaves are also a clue.
How to fight mealybugs
- Show off the money tree
- Isolate plant
- Sprinkle insecticide as granules (€10.00 on Amazon)
- Place plant sticks next to the plant
- Spray insecticide
The often recommended treatment of mealybugs with a soft soap solution does not make sense. The lice have a dense shell that cannot be penetrated.
The commercially available insecticides contain toxins that fight mealybugs. They are passed through the substrate into the leaves and poison the pests sucking there.
Dead mealybugs or mealybugs can be easily rubbed off with a soft cloth or a brush.
Tip
Fighting mealybugs is a lengthy process. If you use sprays, you need to use them for at least two weeks to completely get rid of the lice. Until then, the money tree should be placed separately.
