Mealybugs on Nepenthes: Insecticidal Soap First, Systemic for Heavy Infestations

Orthene (acephate) no longer sold for home use. For mealybugs on Nepenthes:

Light infestation: insecticidal soap (potassium fatty acids) — safe on Nepenthes, not on sundews/butterworts/flytraps.
Heavy: imidacloprid (Bayer 3-in-1, Rose & Flower) — safe on flytraps/sundews, caution on butterworts (spray crown only).

Test on cheap plants first. Check/treat houseplants (ficus prone) as source. Soap resistance rare.

Carnivorous Plants: Soil Mealybugs in Nursery: Rotate Stock, Systemic Treatment; Root Mealybugs on Heliconias: Organic Rescue Plan for a Contaminated Patio; Mealybugs: Repot, Treat Systemically, and Check Neighbors; Can Carnivorous Plants Be Harmed by Eating Venomous Insects?; Aphids on Drosera: Identification and Treatment with Imidacloprid; Aphids on Sundews: Identification and Safe Treatment; Tiny White Bugs in Sundew Pot: Springtails or Fungus Gnats?; Feeding Ladybugs to Carnivorous Plants and Mulch Choices; Mealybugs on Dieffenbachia: Identification and Treatment; Spider Mites vs. Mealybugs on Dracaena: Identification and Treatment

Garden Articles

Plants