◉ Manual Removal: Use a water spray or manually remove the mealybugs to reduce their numbers before employing other methods. A strong stream of water can help significantly reduce their population. Regularly spraying off the bugs should be combined with other treatments for comprehensive eradication. ◉ Insecticidal Soaps: Use fatty acid salts or insecticidal soaps specifically formulated to combat mealybugs. These soaps weaken the pests' outer shell without leaving excessive residue. Ensure thorough coverage as the soap dissipates quickly, necessitating follow-up applications. Take care to avoid getting the soap on your buds. ◉ Neem Oil: Neem oil is a natural remedy effective against various pests, including mealybugs. However, it may impart an unpleasant taste or smell to flowering plants, so avoid contact with the buds. Use a mister to evenly spray the leaves, as neem oil and water tend to separate easily. ◉ Alcohol: Alcohol can dissolve the waxy outer coating of mealybugs, providing different application methods. For small plants, apply rubbing alcohol with a cotton swab to eliminate the bugs individually. Alternatively, create an alcohol-water spray solution and use a mister to spray the bugs directly. Ensure a weekly application until the mealybugs are eradicated. ◉ Beneficial Insects: Introduce beneficial insects such as lady beetles, ladybugs, and lacewings to your garden. These insects feed on mealybugs and can help control their population. While purchasing ladybugs is an option, they may fly away within a day or two. Keep in mind that the reproductive capacity of mealybugs may require additional intervention beyond natural enemies alone. ◉ Diatomaceous Earth: Sprinkle food-grade diatomaceous earth on exposed parts of the soil. This organic insect killer, made from fossilized shells, punctures the exoskeletons of insects like mealybugs. It poses no harm to humans or pets and can even be consumed. Using diatomaceous earth helps eliminate mealybugs and prevents future infestations. ◉ Remember, consistent and combined treatment methods will ensure effective control of mealybugs, even if it takes multiple attempts and a little patience. Avoid applying multiple treatments simultaneously to prevent overwhelming your plant.