Mealy bug problem

[csaba81]

I have a Thai friend who tries to grow most of her own veges but says that most die off now due to mealy bug infestation. I would say problem solving is not one of her greatest skills so I'm trying to help out. If anyone has any hands on experience dealing with this problem, I would appreciate any suggestions. Yes, I will google the problem but I find that local people with local experience usually have good answers.

[cooked]

Cure it or prevent it? Usually, an oil-based insecticide is recommended. Neem oil will probably do it.

The bugs seem to attack plants that are enfeebled by  drought and /or heat. Even in the rainy season I pay attention to watering, especially to pot plants but also younger plants, vegetables.

[csaba81]

24 minutes ago, cooked said:

Cure it or prevent it? Usually, an oil-based insecticide is recommended. Neem oil will probably do it.

The bugs seem to attack plants that are enfeebled by  drought and /or heat. Even in the rainy season I pay attention to watering, especially to pot plants but also younger plants, vegetables.

 

High infestation so cure to begin and then prevent. I'm assuming that a more aggressive approach would be required at the start and then settle into some kind maintenance routine. I don't know if the bugs are carried in by the wind from adjacent fields or how they come to populate an area.

[Pogust]

Ants farm the mealybugs. They suck up the sweet excrement they produce. So keeping ants away helps. Soapy water is another tried method.