Will neem oil kill mealybugs?

Yes, neem oil is effective, but be careful not to apply it while the plant is in direct, hot sun to avoid leaf burn.

Do I need to repot the plant if it has pests?

Usually not, unless the infestation is severe or you suspect the bugs are hiding in the soil.

Prickly Aloe: pests, causes and fixes

Check these first

Look closely in the crevices where leaves meet the stem.
Check the undersides of the leaves for white, cottony webs.
Isolate the plant from other succulents to prevent the bugs from spreading.

Likely causes

Mealybug Infestation
Most likely
How to tell: You will see white, fuzzy patches in the leaf axils or along the edges of the leaves. The plant may look stunted or lose its vibrant color.
What to do: Dip a cotton swab in rubbing alcohol and dab it directly onto the white spots to kill the pests. For larger infestations, spray the entire plant with insecticidal soap once a week for three weeks.
Poor Air Circulation
Possible
How to tell: The plant is in a stagnant, humid corner where pests thrive.
What to do: Move your plant to a spot with better airflow. Keep the leaves clean by wiping them with a damp cloth occasionally.

Pests on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your prickly aloe

The list above covers the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at a photo of your actual plant and tells you the likely cause, how serious it is, and what to try first. Identification and a health check are free.

When to worry

If you see a heavy infestation covering the whole plant, it can weaken the aloe significantly. Small spots are easy to manage if caught early.

Stopping it coming back

Inspect your plant every time you water it, and keep the leaves free of dust.

Prickly Aloe: pests? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your prickly aloe and Pocket Botanist tells you which cause is most likely, how serious it is, and what to try first. A few checks a day are free. Save the plant and you get care reminders timed for it.

Get the app · Or check it from a photo now, free

Questions people ask

Will neem oil kill mealybugs?: Yes, neem oil is effective, but be careful not to apply it while the plant is in direct, hot sun to avoid leaf burn.
Do I need to repot the plant if it has pests?: Usually not, unless the infestation is severe or you suspect the bugs are hiding in the soil.

Guides to these causes

Mealybugs

What are these white spots on my Thorny Aloe?