This is a public-interest archive. Personal data is pseudonymized and retained under GDPR Article 89.

[INDOOR-GARDENING:222] Re: Scale problem

At 12:44 PM 3/2/99 -0600, you wrote:
>
>I've been quietly following this list for some time, and have a question for
>you.  I have a 7-8 ft. ficus tree which has a scale infestation.  Is there
>anything I can do to save it?  I'm trying systemic insecticide--is that the
>right thing to do and how often?  Is there anything else?  I really hate to
>lose it. Thanks for any suggestions.

Scale on a tree that size is going to be a bear to get rid of since going
after it manually with cotton swabs and alcohol (my favorite sure-fire
method) isn't really an option.

Spraying for scale only works if you catch it in the 'crawler' stage of its
life cycle.  Once it's developed its waxy shell, it's well-nigh impervious.
 Application of a systemic pesticide is about your only option.  Follow the
label instructions carefully.  

Because of the way the chemical is transported in the plant, though, it
will be most efficacious on newer, younger growth.  This means you will
probably want to tackle any scale on the main trunk and larger branches
with a manual method.  Just use a nailbrush and soapy water (dish detergent
like Dawn is good).  Once scale has been dislodged, the soap will desiccate
(aka kill) it as it dries.

Good luck.

-- Karen




Listmom, Indoor Gardening Mailing List

Karen Fletcher                                   kef@prairienet.org
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
The Garden Gate                  http://garden-gate.prairienet.org/
The Garden Spider's Web          http://www.gardenweb.com/spdrsweb/
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
   For information on the Indoor Gardening Mailing List, visit:
         http://garden-gate.prairienet.org/sunroom.htm
Other Mailing lists | Author Index | Date Index | Subject Index | Thread Index