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cleansc

Help ID this Critter on our Citrus & Succulents

cleansc
10 years ago

Hello all! Here's a Q from my wife.

We seem to have an issue with these white critters hanging out on our citrus new growth, and on her extensive succulent garden.

1. What is it?

2. Is it harmful?

2a. Plans of action to eradicate if indeed harmful?

Thanks, all!

Comments (5)

  • mrsg47
    10 years ago

    Mealy bug/ wooley aphid. Nasty but easy to get rid of. Dowse the entire plant in water. They are in the soil. Mrs. G

  • jean001a
    10 years ago

    Unclear if is mealybug. Could be a beneficial insect, mealybug destroyer, which looks very similar to a mealybug. But travels more rapidly and has chewing mouthparts. (Ask it to say Ahhh.).

  • cleansc
    Original Author
    10 years ago

    LOL thanks but is there any other way to make a proper ID? Or just douse and carry on for now?

    Anyone else have a vote in either direction? :D

    Thanks, all!

  • puglvr1
    10 years ago

    Try something mild for now...if there are NO blooms a mixture of Murphy's oil soap (or dish washing liquid) and water should do the trick...a few drops to a sprayer should do it...don't add too much soap just enough so it will stick and suffocate the bugs (looks like Mealies? to me also)...don't spray in full sun...early morning or very early evening, unless temps are going to be cool and cloudy...below 75 degrees would be best...you can always rinse the soap off after a few minutes to keep the leaves from burning...then spray again in a few days to get rid of the eggs and whatever you might have missed.

  • cleansc
    Original Author
    10 years ago

    We'll try this next. The succulents are in pots so they can be moved to shade. Thanks!

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