How to Avoid a Mealybug Infestation Mealybugs are wingless insects found in warm, humid environments. They often appear as white fluffy growth on the leaves, stems and fruit of plants. They feed on plants by sucking out sap and other fluids from the tissue of the plant. Though mealybugs won’t usually cause extreme damage to your plants, it goes without saying that they are *very* disgusting and can get out of hand quick. Where do they come from, you ask? Your plant can get contaminated in a number of ways, but the most common is usually from another plant you brought home that you didn't know was infected. The best way to avoid an infestation? Keep your plant clean-- if anything, regularly cleaning your plants gives you the opportunity to examine their leaves and catch a potential problem before it actually is one. Avoiding purchasing plants from crowded, big box hardware stores, using gentle soap like L'Original, and/or occasionally cleaning with Neem Oil can also help ensure you never have a mealybug in sight. | 
