mealybugs on Rhipsalis
Quick answer
If your Rhipsalis has mealybugs, the most likely cause is: Mistletoe cactus (Rhipsalis baccifera) is a leafless, almost spineless epiphytic cactus whose thin, wiry, pendent stems branch profusely and form dense clusters, giving sap-sucking pests such as mealybugs many cracks, crevices, and inaccessible joints to hide in along the cascading foliage.
Start here:
- 1. Inspect new Rhipsalis baccifera plants carefully before adding them to a collection and quarantine any suspect plant for a couple of weeks, since mealybugs do not travel far and usually arrive on new stock.
- 2. If mealybugs are spotted on the long thin stems, dab each insect with a small brush dipped in alcohol and physically remove them, then maintain regular checks for several days until no new bugs appear.
Why Rhipsalis gets mealybugs
Rhipsalis baccifera
Mistletoe cactus (Rhipsalis baccifera) is a leafless, almost spineless epiphytic cactus whose thin, wiry, pendent stems branch profusely and form dense clusters, giving sap-sucking pests such as mealybugs many cracks, crevices, and inaccessible joints to hide in along the cascading foliage.
How to reverse mealybugs on Rhipsalis
- 1
Inspect new Rhipsalis baccifera plants carefully before adding them to a collection and quarantine any suspect plant for a couple of weeks, since mealybugs do not travel far and usually arrive on new stock.
- 2
If mealybugs are spotted on the long thin stems, dab each insect with a small brush dipped in alcohol and physically remove them, then maintain regular checks for several days until no new bugs appear.
Keep mealybugs off this Rhipsalis
Avoid introducing mealybugs on new plants, keep the hanging basket in bright semi-shade, and routinely inspect the inaccessible joints and stem segments where these pests hide.