scale and mealy bugs

[beezermommy]

-fairly new to geeks. I have a question about scale. I have battled a large scale problem for a while and have gotten it down to a smaller problem. I would like to get rid of this 4ever. However, I have dogs and am trying to not use heavy duty pesticides. Can anyone tell me what would be a good scale and mealy bug pesticide to use? I have used neem oil and scrape and alcohol, but i'm frustrated with the response. Thanks.

[Shannara]

I have had several times in the past where I had a bad scale infestation on some of my orchids. I tried to avoid using chemicals and the scale always would win. They can get down in the tiniest little slits and folds in the plant. They even get down in the potting medium. It is maddening!

The only thing that ever worked was a good systemic insecticide. Since it's summertime would you be able to find the plant a nice shady spot outside where it could live after you spray it? That would give the spray time to absorb into the plant and kill off the little buggers and avoid exposing it to your pets.

Good luck.

Shann~

[Stitz]

Originally Posted by Shannara

The only thing that ever worked was a good systemic insecticide. Since it's summertime would you be able to find the plant a nice shady spot outside where it could live after you spray it? That would give the spray time to absorb into the plant and kill off the little buggers and avoid exposing it to your pets.

Good luck.

Shann~

Bayer Complete Insect Killer works for me. I have two dogs. I use the product soon after dawn. It dissipates rapidly.

--Stitz--

[janet_a]

pyrethrin-based stuff, but plan using it weekly *forever.*

[Greybeard]

Just in case, so far no bugs yet, is this stuff harmful to younger seedlings Are they more delicate than older chids. I have seen these products mentioned in other threads and did not know if seedlings, I have two now, were ever mentioned in the treatment

[Stitz]

Originally Posted by Greybeard

Just in case, so far no bugs yet, is this stuff harmful to younger seedlings Are they more delicate than older chids. I have seen these products mentioned in other threads and did not know if seedlings, I have two now, were ever mentioned in the treatment

Greybeard, I have used imidacloprid products for two years on seedlings through mature plants. I have not noticed any negative effects....except to pest insects!

GOOD question! Regarding chemicals, always be more concerned with seedlings relative to mature plants.


--Stitz--

[Greybeard]

Maybe we should suggest a section just for seedlings and possible specialized care Thanks for the compliment, I just could not remember anything mentioned in regards to seedlings and I have had experience with other plants seedlings being harmed by mature plant treatments

[beezermommy]

Thanks for all of the responses. I am going to venture in Bayer Complete Insect Killer and see what happens. Will keep updates. Thanks again.

[dave64]

good luck