Yes, neem oil is effective against mealybugs. Apply it in the evening to avoid leaf burn from direct light.

Do I need to isolate the plant?

Definitely. Move the infested begonia away from your other plants immediately to stop the pests from traveling.

What are these white bugs on my begonia? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Examine the leaf undersides with a flashlight.
Check the joints where stems meet the main stalk.
Look for sticky residue on the leaves.

Likely causes

Mealybugs
Most likely
How to tell: You see white, fuzzy, cottony masses on the stems or leaf joints. The leaves may also look sticky.
What to do: Dip a cotton swab in rubbing alcohol and dab it directly onto the bugs to kill them. Follow up by spraying the whole plant with insecticidal soap every 7 days until they are gone.
Poor Airflow
Possible
How to tell: The plant is crowded by other plants or kept in a stagnant corner.
What to do: Move the plant to a spot with better air circulation. Gently wipe the leaves with a damp cloth to remove dust and debris.

Pests on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your begonia

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 the infestation is heavy and the plant is losing many leaves, it is a serious problem. Act quickly to prevent it from spreading to your other plants.

Stopping it coming back

Keep your plant clean and give it enough space from other plants to allow air to move freely.

Begonia: pests? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your begonia 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

Can I use neem oil?: Yes, neem oil is effective against mealybugs. Apply it in the evening to avoid leaf burn from direct light.
Do I need to isolate the plant?: Definitely. Move the infested begonia away from your other plants immediately to stop the pests from traveling.

Guides to these causes

Mealybugs

What are these white bugs on my begonia?

Check these first

Not sure what's wrong with your begonia?