Column Cactus (Cereus) Mealybugs: Alcohol-Soap Spray

White powder/scales on one arm of your Cereus = mealybugs. Juveniles were likely present at purchase.

Treatment

1. Cover soil with plastic.
2. Spray 5:1 water:isopropyl alcohol + squirt dish soap until entire plant drips.
3. Let dry; wipe off carcasses if desired.
4. Monitor; retreat if any return.

Treat all three arms—infestation likely spreading.

For cactus pest guide, email wcreed@HorticulturalHelp.com.