I've never had a problem with spider mites but mealybugs ... yes. It seems they are worse at times when it's hot, humid and very little air movement. Most of the time for mealybugs, I use regular old rubbing alcohol (70% Isopropyl Alcohol) and take either a Q-tip (if I find just a couple of bugs) or a cotton ball ... soak it in the alcohol and wipe the bottoms of the leaves and stems and all the little nooks and crannies ... anywhere you see those white cottony looking critters. I've heard some folks say they put rubbing alcohol into a spray bottle with liquid dish detergent and spray their plants but I'd advise doing that in a shady area so as not to get leaf burn.
Rick, can you get DE (Diatomateous Earth)
http://www.bing.com/images/sea... anywhere in BC? It works for all sorts of insects!
