Description
Root mealybugs appear as cotton-type masses on infested roots and feed on the plant’s root system. Their bodies are not covered in wax like foliage feeding mealybugs.
Common native plant hosts
Broad range of native plant hosts.
Symptoms and damage
Root mealybugs can remain undetected for long periods of time. They feed off the plant’s root system resulting in stunted growth. Heavy infestation can severely damage or kill juvenile plants.
Prevention and control tips
- keep trays and equipment clean
- regular crop monitoring
- removing plants from containers
- neem
- chemical insecticides.