- 1). Identify your pests. White mealybugs lurk on the underside of leaves and leaf joints. They are small (1/10 to 1/8 of an inch) insects that resemble little balls of cotton. Their damage often leaves a sticky residue on leaves and stems. Adult whiteflies look like small, waxy moths, and their nymphs resemble scale insects -- flat layers with hard shells.
- 2). Spray a strong blast of water directly onto the infested area. Attach a power sprayer nozzle to your garden hose. Adjust the nozzle until the water pressure forms a forceful jet stream. Aim the water flow to the undersides of the palm fronds. Repeat daily, in the morning and late afternoon, to dislodge the pests. For indoor palms, move them outside while power spraying them, then bring them back inside after they've dried.
- 3). Release predatory insects that enjoy snacking on whiteflies and mealybugs. Natural predators include ladybugs and the mealybug destroyer (Cryptolaemus montrouzieri). Place the predators directly on the infested plant.
- 4). Clean smaller palm trees by hand. Dip a cotton swab into rubbing alcohol and apply it directly to the mealy bugs and whitefly nymphs, coating them completely. Repeat this for several days until the bugs drop off the palm. Wipe down the entire palm leaf with a soft rag.
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