Will soap kill mealybugs?

Yes, a mild insecticidal soap can work, but be careful not to damage the plant's protective wax coating. Rubbing alcohol is usually safer for Echeveria.

Do I need to throw the plant away?

Not usually. Mealybugs are annoying but can be controlled with patience and regular cleaning.

What are these white spots on my Echeveria?

Check these first

Look closely in the crevices between leaves.
Check if the white spots are fuzzy or cottony.
Inspect nearby plants for similar signs.

Likely causes

Mealybug Infestation
Most likely
How to tell: You see small, white, cottony masses in the leaf axils. The plant may look stunted or have yellowing leaves.
What to do: Dip a cotton swab in rubbing alcohol and touch it directly to the bugs to kill them. Repeat this every few days until you see no more pests.
New Plant Introduction
Possible
How to tell: Pests appear shortly after bringing a new plant home. Other nearby plants may also show signs of infestation.
What to do: Isolate the affected plant immediately. Check all your other plants for signs of bugs and treat them as needed.

When to worry

A few bugs are manageable, but a heavy infestation can kill the plant. Treat it as soon as you spot the first one.

Stopping it coming back

Inspect new plants before bringing them home and keep your Echeveria clean and free of dead leaves where bugs like to hide.

Not sure which one it is? Photograph your echeveria.

This page lists the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at your actual leaf and tells you the likely cause, how serious it is, and what to try first. Identification and a health check are free.

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Questions people ask

Will soap kill mealybugs?: Yes, a mild insecticidal soap can work, but be careful not to damage the plant's protective wax coating. Rubbing alcohol is usually safer for Echeveria.
Do I need to throw the plant away?: Not usually. Mealybugs are annoying but can be controlled with patience and regular cleaning.