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Root mealybug problem.

15 years ago

Hi All,

Does anyone have some problem with root mealy bug? The insects usually hide in the pot. We do not know the infestation only when plants are repotted. When we know, the insects usually spread extensively and might transmit to other plants. I want to know how to get rid of them. I have a lot of plants in my collection. So,it's very difficult to check them out every pots. The best way is to use some chemical to kill them. Which chemical is saved and suitable?

Cheers Yong

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Comments (8)

hotdiggetydam
15 years ago
Yong I use a systemic product called Merit in a granular form so I never see the mealy ones.
Imidacloprid is the active ingredient and for use against soil insects.
The chemical structure of imidacloprid is a synthetic analog of nicotine, the natural alkaloid found in the leaves of tobacco and related plants
lyndi_whye
15 years ago
I was just about to recommend 'Pravado' which contains the same chemical,Imidacloprid. It's effective against scales as well between 18% - 20 % concentration.
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udo69
Original Author
15 years ago
Hi HDD and Lyndi,

Many thank for sharing. I will try to do as you both advice.

Cheers Yong
neomea
15 years ago
HDD

Is the merit (granular) effect for palms too? Is the poison absorbed through the roots and xmitted to the whole plant?

Oh? You can tell I am pretty clueless when it comes to poisons!
hotdiggetydam
15 years ago
Hi Neomea, Yes it is systemic. I however do not use this product on anything that attracts honey bees. As with all systemics it can effect the bees. Next to my shadehouse is a tree that attacts thousands of honey bees and has not affected the bees at all. I prefer the granular product as I feel it gives me more control on where the product is dispensed than a sprayed product. If I must use a liquid product I use the dip method.

Here is a link that might be useful: Merit
neomea
15 years ago
Ah. Thanks HDD. I also do not like to spray poison so this product is perfect! Thanks....

Neomea
udo69
Original Author
15 years ago
Hi HDD,

That means this chemical has 2 forms, granule and liquid. I think the granule form is better. It kills only insect in the pot , not around the pot.That's perfect.

Cheers
Yong
bromadams
15 years ago
I've been known to use a dropper and go around and put one or two drops of 1.47% liquid merit right into the cups of the broms. Obviously, there should be water in the cup. This way I don't have to worry about getting it on any other plants.

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