Indoor plant question

[CJK]

This is my first time posting on this board!! Here's my question. We have a tall, indoor plant (about 7ft tall) that is in the corner of our family room. It seems to be doing fairly well there. The problem is that I think it has some sort of bug? I'm always trying to get cobwebs off of it and it's very sticky with this sap substance. There's bits of white scattered around the plant (sort of like the consistency of bird poop). Any ideas on what I could spray the plant with? The stickiness (like sap) is getting on the carpet and wall. Thanks for any input!!

 

[Snowwark]

Welcome, CJK!

I am death to house plants, all I've ever managed to keep alive are some african violets. Do you know what kind of a house plant it is?

I'm wondering if your plant is being attacked by mealy bugs. Take a look at the link below (halfway down the site page), and see if that sounds anything like the problem you're having.

House Plant Insects ~ Prevention & Plant Care

Any other ideas for CJK, on what might be affecting her plant?

Let us know if you think mealy bugs are the problem.

Kim

 

[CJK]

yes, yes, yes! It's definitely mealy bugs. My plant fits that description. Those little buggers! I'm not sure what kind of plant it is, but it resembles a palm tree a little bit. Any thoughts on what I should spray on it? Thanks so much!

 

[Snowwark]

Here's some suggestions on treatments for those nasty little so and so's...lol.

Mealy bug treatments

It sounds important to isolate your plant so that it doesn't spread to any others you might have.

Let us know how it goes, CJK!

 

[CJK]

*update*

Well, I've decided to try the rubbing alcohol followed by a good rinse. It was no small task considering the plant is over 7ft tall!! I cut off the brown parts and tried to wipe off all the sticky sap. There were LOTS of mealy eggs on the leaves and stems of the plant. I doubt I got them all, but I certainly gave it an honest effort. I'll probably have to spray it with some pesticide mentioned in the link above, but for now I want to see if this does any good. I notice that when I water the plant, I can see the little suckers moving around in the dirt. Does anyone know what the cause is??? How'd they get there?? I've only had the plant since October! Thanks for your help!!! I feel like I'm now doing something to save this beautiful plant!