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Mealybugs on Orchids: Alcohol-Soap Spray Beats Q-Tips

White "flies" on an orchid are likely mealybugs. Q-tip alcohol misses hidden crawlers. Spray entire plant—leaves, stems, crevices—to drip point with alcohol-water-soap mix. Repeat in 5–7 days. Test on a few leaves first. Never spray in sun or above 75°F.

Pesticides are hazardous and not fully effective. Thorough spray coverage is the key.

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