Question From:
Christine Beer in Middle Swan, Middle Swan Western Australia
Nature of problem:
I have a sticky white cotton wool like substance on my chain of hearts. Is pyrethrum ok ti spray on it
Type of Plant (if known):
Chain of hearts
Symptoms of Plant Illness (please try NOT to diagnose your problems yourself):
Sticky white substance under the leaves and on stems
Soil Type (e.g. sandy, clay or loam) OR Potting Mix Type:
Potting Mix
How often do you water the plant:
Weekly
How many hours of sunlight does the plant get each day:
It’s in shade under patio
How long since you planted it:
Years
Have you fertilised? If so, with what and when:
Seasol about 3 weeks ago
Is the plant indoors or outdoors:
Outdoors
Is the plant in a pot or in the ground:
Hanging basket
What other treatments have you given the plant:
Whiteoil
Upload photo if available:
Other Comments:
I’ve had plant for years never had this problem before. Hope you have a solution.thankyou
Answer:
Hi Chrissie, The plant is run down and has lost its immune system: that is why you have mealy bug. The plant needs removal of about half of the old potting mix, then repotting into a premium quality potting mix in a larger pot. Place it into half shade outdoors in a warm, protected position. After two weeks fertilise with a good liquid fertiliser such as Osmocote all purpose liquid fertiliser at half recommended strength. You could spray again with white oil, but no spray that I know of kills mealy bug for long. Don