Learn how to eradicate this stealthy army of insects.
Tomasz Klejdysz/Getty Images
Are your beloved plants looking sickly, or have you noticed strange bumps on them?
They may have fallen victim to a scale infestation that’s literally sucking the life out of them.
Photo:Tomasz Klejdysz/Getty Images
So, it’s vital to eradicate scale insects to prevent them from weakening and even killing your plants.
What Is Scale on Plants?
Their size can fall between 0.04 and 0.4 inches (1 mm to 1 cm) in diameter.
Why Do Plants Get Scale?
So what causes these little plant suckers to show up in the first place?
Heinrich says that ants on plants are a common sign of a scale infestation.
She says that scales can get indoors by hitching a ride on infested plants.
They’re attracted to weakened plants that grow in improper conditions, so struggling houseplants can easily become infected.
Omelchenko says you’re able to start by removing adult scales off your plant.
“If this doesn’t help, use an old toothbrush.
However, ensure to avoid damaging the plant.”
She continues, “Prepare the solution by using a mild liquid soap, preferably unscented.
After removing the insects, rinse your plant to wash away the soap.
Use a sprayer filled with clean water for this.
Alternatively, you’re able to wipe the foliage with a damp sponge soaked in clean water.”
Heinrich provides another effective strategy for ridding indoor plants of scale.
Spraying with oil will suffocate the insects and keep them from spreading."
She continues, “If they’re present on older, woody branches, use a soft brush instead.
“Take note that insecticides will kill beneficial insects along with the scale.
It’s also important to refrain from using these products while plants are flowering to protect pollinators.”
Although scale is common, there are a few things you could do to help prevent infestations from starting.
“Quarantine any new plants that you bring to your home or garden,” Omelchenko says.
Davis says regularly cleaning garden tools can help prevent the spread of pests and diseases.
you’re able to disinfect your tools with bleach water before you store them.
Clean up any litter under the plants in your garden and aim to keep it weed-free.”
