White Fuzzy Stuff on Night-Blooming Jasmine? It's Scale or Mealybugs—Treat with Oil or Soap

After weeks of rain in Florida, a night-blooming jasmine has white material on branches that smells moldy. What is it and how to treat before it kills the plant?

Identification: Scale or Mealybugs

The white coating is almost certainly scale insects or mealybugs—common in humid Florida conditions. Both suck sap and excrete honeydew, which can host sooty mold (the moldy smell).

Treatment Options (Safe & Effective)

• Horticultural oil (Ultra-Fine, Organocide)
• Insecticidal soap

Apply in late afternoon, let work overnight, rinse next morning. Repeat per label. Early treatment prevents population explosions that can defoliate or kill the plant.

Why Rain Increases Risk

Wet, humid weather favors pest reproduction. Regular scouting and prompt treatment keep jasmine healthy and blooming.