Jenwise- If you're on a balcony, you probably don't get many bees. (but, I could be wrong, maybe you do). I faced the same dilemma twice now. I understand the importance of bees and the integral part they play with our eco-system. Where I am in southern California, we seem to have regular infestations of Mealy bugs, spider mites, and scale insects; the top 3 with fungus gnats not far behind.

I have tried extensive methods for eliminating these pests to no avail. I have cleaned, scrubbed, and bleached countless pots and containers. I have washed and sprayed plants and soil. I even microwaved the soil and still do. I have used insecticidal soaps, Diatomaceous earth, vinegar, cinnamon, alcohol, Neem oil, seven spray., etc., etc. none of these worked for very long.

with the time, energy and thousands of dollars I've invested in my balcony, I was not about to let the insects win.

A friend of mine on the forum recommended Bayer Tree and Shrub ($20 at Home Depot) 2 tablespoons per gallon. Used once a year. I have over 300 plants on my balcony and I still have some of the pesticide left. So, a little goes a long way.

I cannot and will not suggest to you or anyone else which way you should choose to go. I am suggesting this as a solution if it could work for you.

I am on the 4th level so, I don't get too many bees to begin with. I decided to save my plants.

It's been about a month since I first used the pesticide and all I can tell you is that I have not seen any trace of any type of insect harming my plants. And, as for the bees, I have not seen any since I've used the product. It's as if they "know" that my plants would not be good for them. That's what i'd truly like to believe anyway. I inspect my garden thoroughly and have not seen any dead bees at all, not a single one.

I sincerely hope you find a solution that works for you as i'm sure you love your plants as I do mine.

all the best,

Neil

Is Bayer Tree & Shrub good for cacti & succulents including jades? I've seen a few mealy bugs trying to find a home and I kill them if I can catch them before they jump.

Camellia- It hasn't harmed any of my plants. They're all free of bugs thankfully. I have houseplants indoors and my cacti and succulents including jade outdoors. None of them have been harmed by the Bayer. For me though, instead of using it just once a year..i had to do it twice because my situation was that bad. I would not use it on the same plants more than that. When I get a new plant I apply some then to that plant only. Another benefit is I don't really have to worry anymore about a quarantine time when I get newer plants. Any insects that try to invade my existing plants would be eliminated.