White "Mold" on Orchid Leaves? It's Probably Mealybugs—Here's the Cure

The Alcohol Test

Dip a Q-tip in isopropyl alcohol and touch the white spots. If they dissolve revealing tiny bugs = mealybugs. These sap-suckers kill orchids slowly. If no bug appears, it may be true fungus—email photo to kawacym@aol.com (subject: "Orchid white mold").

Mealybug Eradication Protocol

1. Unpot infected plants.
2. Remove ALL old mix from roots.
3. Submerge entire plant in 50/50 alcohol/water for 5–10 minutes.
4. Wipe every leaf/stem with alcohol-soaked cloth.
5. Air dry completely.
6. Repot in FRESH mix + NEW pot. (Eggs hide in old pots/media.)
7. Isolate 4+ weeks; inspect weekly.

Why This Works

Alcohol dissolves mealybugs' waxy coating and kills eggs. Systemic insecticides (imidacloprid) are an alternative for large collections. Act fast—mealybugs spread rapidly.