Eliminating mealybugs from Dipladenia is crucial, as these pests can ultimately kill the plant. The lush, glossy leaves of Dipladenia are a tempting meal for various insects, especially the voracious cochineal.

Cochineals are tiny insects, about a millimetre in size, covered with a waxy shield that varies in colour from brown to greyish or white, depending on the species. Due to their small size, they are hard to detect, but their presence becomes apparent through the damage they cause - brown spots on the leaves and overall plant withering. Cochineals typically settle along the veins or branches, where they sting the plant to suck its sap. This feeding process slows the plant's growth, weakens it, and can lead to its death.

The mealybugs' metabolism retains the necessary proteins from the sap and excretes the excess sugars as a dense substance called honeydew. This honeydew attracts ants and can foster the growth of fungi, creating additional threats to the plant.

 

Eradicating a mealybug infestation can be challenging if not caught early, so it's essential to inspect the plants regularly for any signs of attack.

To eliminate mealybugs, you can use one of our pesticide free products like our Ecofective Bug Control which is also child, pet and bee friendly. Applying physical control of greenfly, blackfly, spider mites, scale insects and other pests, it also controls powdery mildew and provides plants with nutrients.

For preventative measures, you can insert a stick of Acetamiprid into the potting soil in early spring. This stick will gradually release the substance, protecting the plant for up to three months from mealybugs, aphids, whiteflies, leafhoppers, and psyllids.