Just an FYI for the future, I used to have a mealy infestation in all my orchid collection. Then last summer, I put them outside. I dipped the entire plant, substrate, and pot in a systemic pesticide. I think its bayer rose 3 in 1 or something like that. I made up a tub of it, and let each orchid soak for about 5 minutes, completely submerged so that it makes it into all the nooks and crannies. Drain, and repeat in 3 to 4 weeks. I didn't have any of my orchids die from this, and when I brought them in this winter, I was left with only one orchid with mealies. Sprayed that one wiht alcohol religiously on weekly basis for about 6 weeks. Haven't seen another mealy since around november. (except for 1 that I found in one of my tanks--but luckily they never took off in there, phew!)Also, make sure the surface you have them on and near has been cleaned really well. I used to have them hiding in the crevices of my rack!
Like frogparty said...Mealies really are the devil.