Mealybugs Scale Aphids on sedum
What's Happening
Mealybugs, scale, and aphids are the three most destructive Sedum pests. Mealybugs appear as white cottony masses on growing tips, roots, and leaf axils. Scale presents as armored shells on stems and leaves. Aphids cluster on new growth and flower buds, excreting sticky honeydew that attracts black mold. These pests multiply rapidly in warm, humid conditions.
How to Fix It
- 1
Identification: Mealybugs look like cottony fungus; scale appears as brown shells; aphids are tiny green/black clusters
- 2
Immediate treatment: Apply insecticidal soap or neem oil spray, targeting undersides of leaves
- 3
For root mealybugs: Unpot and treat roots with systemic insecticide; repot in fresh sterile soil
- 4
Multiple applications: Re-treat every 7-10 days for 3-4 cycles to break egg hatching cycle
- 5
Severe infestations: Discard plant in sealed bag to prevent spread—do not compost
What You'll Need
How to Prevent It
Inspect new plants thoroughly before purchase—check undersides of leaves and growing tips. Quarantine new plants for 2-3 weeks. Maintain good air circulation and avoid over-fertilizing which produces tender growth attractive to pests.