Ever since I ordered a Paph spicerianum from an online vendor, which showed signs of a passed mealybug infestation, I had begun fighting the little buggers. I should've sucked it up then and tossed that plant immediately, but shoulda, coulda, woulda...lesson learned.
For about 6 weeks, it looked as if they had actually disappeared. I had been diligently using water spraying and alcohol along with dishwashing liquid to keep them at bay, but being the resourceful little pests that they are, they just went underground.
Two weeks ago, I began using Bayer Advanced Natria. I was really hoping to find the Bayer 3 in 1, but I later found out they don't sell that in my state so I began using the Natria instead. Um...that pretty much did nothing. It does kill the bugs on contact, but they keep coming back after about 4 days or so.
In the meantime, my strap leaf Paphs have been the worse affected. The mealybugs don't seem as drawn to the thicker leaf plants like my mottled leafed plants and the Phals. I did have to end up tossing one of the Phals since they had been feeding on the roots, some type of fungus had attacked it and I didn't want whatever it was to spread to my other plants.
So...I went online and ordered some of the 3 in 1. I also got up early yesterday and repotted all my orchids into fresh new media. I soaked the roots and all the foliage in insecticide for a good while before adding the new media. I am determined to not lose what's left of my small collection to these pesky little parasites, but they are certainly giving me a run for my money!
So far, it seems like the mealybugs are winning all the battles, but I would like to think I can still win the war. Any tips you all may have are certainly welcome.
This Round Goes to the Mealybugs :(
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