Tiny Cotton Balls Attached To Rosemary Plant

Question From: Bakersfield, California, United States
Q: I have what looks like tiny cotton balls attached to my rosemary. What is it?

A: Your rosemary has mealy bug. Cut off tips badly infected. Dab bugs with alcohol using a Q tip. Spray with Neem oil being sure to hit the undersides of the needles. Treat at least once a week until no more bugs appear. These guys are tough to get rid of and many gardeners I know toss them out. Good Luck, Nancy