My points are doing well, but one house has mealy bug... there is already lots of color and i am really concerned about phyto if i spray... any ideas? (i have a serious mealy problem on my tropicals too, but most of the things i am trying for them i know will burn the points... thx ~gabe
Hi Gabe - Systemic chemicals applied as a drench are the most effective for scale type insects such as mealy bugs. Most of the neonicotinoids like Marathon or Safari can be used as drench right now and should give you some control. Safari or Tri-Star are also labeled as a spray and can be applied to mature bracts. Sprays may be easier right now depending on your situation but a drench will probably be more effective in the long run. Normally with sprays, sevaral applications are also necessary for control. You can also consult our Poinsettia Federal Insect Control Chart (260K PDF)for a complete list of chemicals labeled for mealy bugs. The list does become more limited now that the bracts are coloring but we have included any warnings that exist on the label on the this chart. Hope this helps.....
