White stuff in plants

[Grayson]

I've been noticing these white stuff in random parts of the stem. They're sticky and I don't know if they are made by the 2 garden spiders that are hanging around nearby.




Also found this and am wondering if it is harmless (or the culprit of the former):



If this is an infestation, what should I do to remedy it?

Thanks!

[PhilaGardener]

Thanks for posting! Those are Mealybugs! Clean off the white/bugs with a cotton ball soaked in rubbing alcohol and follow with a good insecticidal soap (don't spray in hot sun or you will damage the plants). These will cause a lot of problems if not addressed. Lots of info available through Google. Good luck!

[ginger2778]

Philagardener nailed It! IAgree totally.

[Worth1]

These critters infest cacti big time and no one knows they have them.
Given time they can take the whole plant down and make them look unsightly.
Here is a small nest I pulled off with my knife yesterday at a friend's house.
Worth
IMG_20170116_38315.jpg

[Grayson]

Thanks! Will do the q-tip and alcohol thing asap. As for the soap, I can't find one here.

These options were presented to me, though:

http://www.ramgoseeds.com/products.do?item_id=24178

http://www.ramgoseeds.com/products.do?item_id=24175

http://www.ramgoseeds.com/products.do?item_id=24181

http://www.ramgoseeds.com/products.do?item_id=24172

And, since insecticidal sprays are bad for the plants at high temps, should I spray at night? Or would that be counterproductive as well due to the possibility of mold?

[ginger2778]

Originally Posted by Grayson

Thanks! Will do the q-tip and alcohol thing asap. As for the soap, I can't find one here.

These options were presented to me, though:

http://www.ramgoseeds.com/products.do?item_id=24178

http://www.ramgoseeds.com/products.do?item_id=24175

http://www.ramgoseeds.com/products.do?item_id=24181

http://www.ramgoseeds.com/products.do?item_id=24172

And, since insecticidal sprays are bad for the plants at high temps, should I spray at night? Or would that be counterproductive as well due to the possibility of mold?

You could just mix some liquid dish soap in water, that will work very well. You will have to convert to your own measurements but I use 1 tablespoon per gallon of water, and yes at night or late afternoon, or even early early morning.

[b54red]

You can also add a bit of Permethrin if they are really bad and get rid of them quick. Neem oil with pyrethrin should also work on them but I have never tried it for that problem.

Bill