How to Rid Plants of Egg Sacs

Insect pests such as worms, mealybugs and mites are destructive to plants, using the leaves as food for adults as well as growing larvae and nymphs. Unfortunately, this reduces the food available for the plants and makes them look ragged. Checking for egg sacs on plant leaves and stems helps you control the pest population and saves you some hassle, because eliminating the pests before they hatch is less of a chore than trying to get rid of the adult bugs.

Bacillus thuringiensis spray

Insecticidal soap

Cotton swab

Isopropyl alcohol

Check for egg sacs weekly beginning in the spring after the last frost, or as soon as you see evidence of adult insect activity around your plants. Pay special attention to the undersides of leaves and along the stems where leaves or lateral stems connect. Some eggs look like egg sacs; others, such as those of mealybugs, look like a cottony white fuzz.

Spray all parts of the plants with water to dislodge the egg sacs as well as the adult insects. Rub along the leaves if necessary to loosen the eggs. Repeat the spray weekly or as needed when egg sacs reappear.

Spray with chemical sprays weekly or as needed if the water spray is not sufficient to control the pests. A premixed spray containing Bacillus thuringiensis, or Bt, will kill worm eggs. A premixed insecticidal soap spray will control mites, aphids and other sucking insects. To use either spray, apply the spray to coat the tops and undersides of leaves and stems. The sprays wash off in rain, so apply them on a dry day. Wear gloves to avoid contact with the spray.

Dip the end of a cotton swab in isopropyl alcohol and rub the tip along stems or under leaves over the egg sac to destroy egg sacs individually. Repeat weekly if new egg sacs appear.

To help keep indoor plants pest-free, check outdoor plants thoroughly for insects before bringing them into the house.

Set houseplants in the kitchen sink and use the nozzle sprayer to rinse the leaves.