Mealybugs on 13-ft Indoor Palms: Large-Scale Treatment

Wiping 13-ft palms is futile—mealybugs hide in crown shafts and leaf bases. You need thorough spray coverage to drip point on all surfaces.

Equipment & Materials

• Sturdy ladder + pump sprayer.
• Tarps to catch drips.
• Spray options: alcohol (1:5 + soap), Brand X Foliage Cleaner (800-333-7977), horticultural oil, neem oil, or Hot Pepper Wax.

Protocol

1. Spray in shade, below 75°F; test a few fronds first.
2. Repeat in 5–7 days for crawlers.
3. Monitor weekly.

Persistence and complete coverage are the only way to eradicate them on large specimens.