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Mealybugs are small , sap - sucking louse that can infest a full kitchen range of plant . mealybug are closely colligate to whiteflies , aphid , and plate insects and are oft launch in the caller of ants .
To battle mealybugs , diatomaceous earthis an excellent insect powder for mealybug control condition .
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Various pest control solutions do n’t kill their target but harm them or ping them off the plant life .
So , you may be asking , does diatomaceous earth kill mealybugs , or will this just be a impermanent localisation ?
DE , as it is known , is effectual in kill mealybug . That has also been my experience with it . DE is safe for use on most plants and is in effect against a all-embracing range of other pests as well .
In this article , we ’ll allow an in - depth look at diatomaceous earth and mealybugs and how does diatomaceous earth work on mealy bug ?
Diatomaceous Earth: What Is It And How Does It Work?
This powder - like kernel is a natural material made up of diatom . Diatoms are the fossilized clay of tiny alga .
It is very fine , with a particle sizing ranging from 2 to 300 micrometer . This makes it ideal for use as a scatter gunpowder .
When dusted onto mealy bug , the sharp edge of the diatomaceous earth particles penetrate their waxy finish and do them to desiccate and expire .
A variety of these pests are dirt gritty bugs . To address Soil Mealybugs in your African Violet , you ’ll necessitate to re - pot it into dirt that has been blended with Diatomaceous Earth .
This process is completely natural and poses no threat to plant or animate being .
Why Are Mealybugs Harmful To Plants?
Like thrips and aphids , mealybugs harm plants by suck in plant juices from them . This can cause the following :
In addition , mealybugs secrete a honeydew substance over their body , making the host plants acquire sooty mildew . This kernel can also clog up stoma on foliage , leading to further legal injury .
Mealybugs are attracted to plants with high nitrogen layer . attempt to apply non - nitrogen plant food if your works does not need it .
After conjugation , Adult distaff mealybugs lay between 100 and 200 eggs in eggs sacs in two weeks making it difficult to full reject the menace .
Diatomaceous earth is an effectual way to verify mealybugs because it penetrates their waxy coating , and diatomaceous earth will pop mealybugs .
The Perfect Solution For Mealybug Control
Food Garde Diatomaceous earth is the perfect solvent for mealybug controller for indoor plants and outdoor plant because of its safety , effectiveness , and all-encompassing range of pests it can drink down .
When used as directed , DE can aid keep your plants good for you and destitute of mealybug .
For best answer , apply the powder around the plant ’s soil and on any leaves or stems overrun with mealybug .
As the insects walk through the powder , they will be completely dehydrated . Within a few Clarence Shepard Day Jr. , the mealybugs will be stagnant .
Using diatomaceous world to kill mealybugs instead of just knocking them off of the plants is a more sustainable solution to mealybug plague because it does not postulate the consumption of pesticides or other chemicals , and it is more likely your mealybug plague will not return as promptly .
Additionally , it is safe for use around child and pets . If you have mealy bug on your plants , consider using DE to get rid of them for good .
Here are other advantages besides controlling mealybugs :
An Affordable Option
We recommend diatomaceous earth as a very affordable selection for mealybug control .
A 1 - punt bag of intellectual nourishment - grade DE typically cost less than $ 10 and will last for several applications , which is an excellent deal for a pest control product .
Eco-Friendly
Diatomaceous earth is one of my favored pestis control products because it is a lifelike production mined from the Earth . It is then processed and packaged for cut-rate sale .
Because it is a natural product , it is biodegradable and does not give to contamination or climate variety .
So I can experience good about what I ’m invest back into the Earth when I employ it .
Are There Any Risks Associated With Using DE?
There are no hump risks associated with using food - grade diatomaceous globe for mealybug ascendance , and I have personally never encountered any event when using the material in my garden or on plant .
However , as with any heart , it is always best to habituate cautiousness and consult a professional person if you have any concerns .
to boot , purchase solid food - grade DE , as this is the only type - safe for use around plants .
Diatomaceous Earth: Pros and Cons
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Final Thoughts
If you ’re look for an effective , affordable , and sustainable solvent to kill mealy bugs , diatomaceous earth is your skillful option .
This natural intersection can be found at most horticulture stores and can help you get rid of mealybug for good .
With unconstipated lotion , you could keep your plant levelheaded and free of mealybugs .
If you are not yet convinced , another method acting to harness mealybugs is premise their rude predator by utilise beneficial louse like ladybug , lacewings , or therenowned Mealybug Destroyer .
