I think mealybugs are soil-borne (actually, "born"), not necessarily that they come in contaminated soil, tho I guess they could, but that the *adults lay eggs in the soil* the plant is potted in, and they just crawl right up onto the plant.
BENEFICIAL NEMATODES could eliminate those eggs in the soil, before they have the chance to hatch, ending the cycle. The beneficial nematodes are microscopic, and are watered in, and immediately go searching for bad guys! They're delicate and must be applied right away, or can be kept refrigerated for a month or two. There are different types for different applications: termites, grub worms, gnats, Japanese beetles, etc. I forget the company I read about online but they aren't hard to find. I recommend giving them a try, and Good Luck with your lemon tree!
I think mealybugs are soil-borne (actually, "born"), not necessarily that they come in contaminated soil, tho I guess they could, but that the *adults lay eggs in the soil* the plant is potted in, and they just crawl right up onto the plant.
BENEFICIAL NEMATODES could eliminate those eggs in the soil, before they have the chance to hatch, ending the cycle. The beneficial nematodes are microscopic, and are watered in, and immediately go searching for bad guys! They're delicate and must be applied right away, or can be kept refrigerated for a month or two. There are different types for different applications: termites, grub worms, gnats, Japanese beetles, etc. I forget the company I read about online but they aren't hard to find. I recommend giving them a try, and Good Luck with your lemon tree!