These sap-sucking insects may be small, but their ability to hide in hard-to-reach places and reproduce rapidly makes them a significant challenge for growers.
To help growers find effective solutions, scientists at Clemson University’s Pee Dee Research and Education Center (REC) Turf and Ornamental Entomology Laboratory have developed a guide to combat mealybug infestations.
The guide is a result of collaborative work by doctoral students Powlomee Mondal and Peilin Tan under the mentorship of Zee Ahmed, Assistant Professor of Turf and Ornamental Entomology.
“Mealybugs often go unnoticed until damage begins to appear and infestations become widespread,” says Ahmed. “Our goal was to create a practical, research-based resource that growers can use to stay ahead of infestations.”
Mealybugs damage greenhouse plants by feeding on sap, leading to stunted growth, yellowing leaves, and distorted plant parts. They also excrete a sticky honeydew that promotes sooty mold growth, impacting plant health and aesthetics. These infestations can also weaken plants to the point of death.
A Strategic Approach to Mealybug Management
This guide outlines a step-by-step strategy emphasizing prevention, accurate identification, and targeted treatment. This includes:
- Determining control methods based on the specific mealybug species present.
- Applying treatments at the pest’s most vulnerable life stages.
- Alternating insecticides to prevent resistance.
- Implementing thorough sanitation, including bench washing and debris removal.
- Using research-backed data to guide product selection and application timing.
“This integrated approach reduces pest pressure while minimizing chemical use and preserving plant health,” says Ahmed.
Grower Feedback Wanted in New Mealybug Survey
Beyond the publication of the mealybug management guide, Tan is also conducting a short, nine-question survey to gather insights from growers about their current challenges with mealybug management. The survey does not collect personal information and is currently available on ArcGIS at Greenhouse Mealybug.