Recognition and control of scale: An essential guide:
Scale can be a persistent pest for both houseplants and outdoor plants. These tiny insects attach themselves tightly to the stems, leaves, and sometimes even the roots of plants, allowing them to suck sap and cause significant damage. In this blog we delve into the world of scale insects: how you can recognize, prevent and combat them. Recognition of scale insects Scales are small insects that camouflage themselves with a waxy or shield-like layer, making them sometimes difficult to spot. They range in color from brown and green to white and are usually less than 5 mm in size. Some features are:
- Shape and Color:
Scale insects have a flattened, oval shape and can be different colors depending on the species.
- Carapace: Adult females produce a hard carapace for protection while they feed. This shield is often how gardeners notice them.
- Sticky discharge:
Scale insects secrete honeydew, a sticky substance that can remain on leaves and stems and attract sooty mold. Scale damage: Scale insects suck plant juices, which can lead to yellowing and wilting of leaves, slowed growth, and in severe cases even death of the plant. Additionally, the honeydew they excrete can attract sooty mold, a fungus that can hinder the plant's photosynthesis. Control methods 1. Manually remove:
For a light infestation, you can gently scrape off scales with a toothpick or soft toothbrush. If necessary, use a cotton swab dipped in alcohol to kill and remove the scale insects.
2. Insecticidal Soap or Oil:
Treat the affected plants with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Make sure you apply the solution thoroughly, including the undersides of leaves and stems, for best results.
3. Biological control:
Beneficial insects such as ladybugs and lacewings can be used to combat scale insects in a natural way.
4. Chemical control:
In severe cases, systemic insecticides may be necessary. These are absorbed by the plant and kill the scale insects when they feed. Use chemicals as a last resort and always follow label instructions. Precautionary actions - Inspect regularly: Check your plants regularly for signs of scale, especially under the leaves and around the stems.
- Quarantine new plants: Keep new plants apart from your other plants for a few weeks to identify and treat any pests before they can spread.
- Maintain a healthy garden: Healthy plants are less susceptible to pests. Provide good watering, fertilization and pruning where necessary.
- By being vigilant and acting quickly at the first signs of scale insects, you can limit the damage and protect your plants. With proper care and treatment, most plants can survive an infestation and fully recover.