I have a problem with a mealy bug infestation on a newly bought
orchid, I have isolated it and have been treating by dabbing the
things with a q-tip soaked with methylated spirits. The trouble is the
things keep coming back after 2/3 weeks; is there anything systemic
(UK available) that is safe to use on orchids? Should I repot? (the
orchid is about to flower), Do they live in the soil?

Cheers

Dave.

Hi Dave!

I got mealy bug last month on blooming Phals!

I used a mix of rubbing alcohol with dishes soap! For 1 ounce of alcohol, I
add 10 drops of soap.
I did spray my plants, leaves, flowers, roots and repottted it. 4 days
after, I just sprayed my plants, leaves and flowers and got rid of the bug.
I didn`t lose the flower!

Good luck

Claude

"dave" wrote in message
om...
| I have a problem with a mealy bug infestation on a newly bought
| orchid, I have isolated it and have been treating by dabbing the
| things with a q-tip soaked with methylated spirits. The trouble is the
| things keep coming back after 2/3 weeks; is there anything systemic
| (UK available) that is safe to use on orchids? Should I repot? (the
| orchid is about to flower), Do they live in the soil?
|
| Cheers
|
| Dave.

Repot into new, clean pot, spraying entire plant, including roots, with
alcohol/soap. Repeat the treatment 4-7 days afterward, and then once more.
Also see earlier thread on mealies - lots of responses there.

HTH

Diana