Article and Question on Mealybugs

[jmain3]

Good afternoon! I found a very good article on mealybugs on orchids that I wanted to share.

http://www.staugorchidsociety.org/PD...-Mealybugs.pdf

I'm not sure if it has been posted before, sorry in advance if it has.

He recommends repotting and treating the orchid roots. However, I just repotted these two phals. Would it be too much stress to do it so soon? Or, I was thinking of maybe soaking or drenching the whole pot with orchid. I've read different opinions on it on the web. If I did- I was thinking with a teaspoon of Safer insect killing soap per gallon of water. I'm not sure how long to soak or drench it for. Any ideas? Thanks guys.

[jmain3]

A quick update- I went to Lowe's and showed an employee that there is a mealybug infestation in their orchids. I picked up plants and their leaves just fell off. I even saw the rare male bug flying in between plants and the females were everywhere. It was so sad! I have learned my lesson and will check every corner for these critters when purchasing new orchids or gardening.

[dounoharm]

i think i would unpot em and give em a good soaking in the soap mix, i would also add a spoonfull of systemic insecticide....mealybugs just laugh at timid approaches like insecticidal soap alone.....

[ezil]

Thanks for the link. It once again made me realize that the best thing to do with a new plant is to isolate it until totally sure no unwanted "guests" hitched a ride!