Brian, I can think of two things that you may find available. The first is predator insects such as ladybird beetles and green lacewings as well as parasitoids (ie., tiny wasps) that can suppress mealy populations enough so that insecticide use is unnecessary. Some parasitic fungi can also reduce populations. The second is low toxic controls such as horticular oils. Even three tablespoons of cooking oil in a gallon of water may work for you. I've had some luck with soapy water but it seems to work better on aphids than mealy bugs
Jim
