Birds Nest Fern Has White Powder In The Cup And No New Buds

Question From: I. Jackson - Shreveport, Louisiana, United States
Q: My birds nest fern has what looks like white powder in the cup. It was growing new buds but has none now. Can I save it?

A: My guess would be mealy bugs. Hopefully you are not watering it in the cup as that will cause rot that will kill the plant. Treat the mealy bugs with Neem oil or Bonide House Plant granules at the recommended rate. Best And Happy Yardening, Nancy