Scale on plants are sap-sucking pests that attach themselves to twigs, leaves, branches, and fruits of host plants. This guide shares the best ways for scale control on houseplants.
There are more than 8,000 species of scale insects in the world and over 1,000 in North America alone.
They are such oddly shaped and immobile pests that they often resemble shell-like bumps rather than insects. In many cases, heavy infestations build up unnoticed before plants begin to show damage.
Large populations may result in poor growth, reduced vigor and chlorotic (yellowed) leaves. If left unchecked, an infested host may become so weak that it dies.
If you suspect your plant has a scale infestation, then read this complete guide to learn what they are, how to identify them, and then get rid of them in 5 simple steps!
As an avid gardener and African daisy enthusiast, I was heartbroken when I first noticed those pesky scales showing up on my prized flowers. Those tiny, sap-sucking insects can do serious damage if left unchecked. But never fear, this handy guide will teach you everything you need to know to get rid of scales and keep your African daisies looking their best.
What are Scales and Why are They Harmful?
Scales are small insects that attach themselves to stems, leaves and flowers of plants like African daisies. They use their tiny piercing mouthparts to feed on plant juices slowly draining your plants of vital nutrients. An infestation can cause yellowing or wilting of leaves, stunted growth, dieback, and even plant death if not addressed.
These sneaky pests are often overlooked due to their tiny size and ability to blend right in with plant textures and colors. But keeping an eye out and addressing an infestation right away is crucial. The sooner you act, the less damage they can cause
How to Identify Scales on African Daisy Flowers
Detecting scales early is the best way to get ahead of an infestation. Here’s what to look for:
- Small bumps or growths on stems, leaves, or flowers
- Sticky residue or honeydew on leaves
- Discolored or distorted plant parts
- Yellowing or wilting leaves
- Stunted growth
If you spot any of these signs, it’s time to take action. Use a magnifying glass to inspect leaves closely and confirm it is indeed scales before moving ahead with treatment.
Effective Techniques to Remove Scales
Manual Removal
For light infestations, manually removing scales can eliminate the problem. Using your fingers or a soft toothbrush, gently rub the scales off of leaves and stems. Take care not to damage the plant in the process Discard any scales you remove and monitor the plant closely for any you may have missed
Horticultural Oils
These oils smother scales by blocking their pores and disrupting feeding. Mix according to label instructions and spray all areas of the plant, including tops and undersides of leaves. Repeat application every 1-2 weeks until all signs of scales are gone. The oil also acts as a repellent against future infestations.
Insecticidal Soap
Insecticidal soap destroys scales by dissolving their waxy outer coating, leading to dehydration. Mix soap concentrate with water per label instructions and spray plant thoroughly. Reapply every 5-7 days for 2-3 weeks. Be sure to coat both upper and lower leaf surfaces.
Neem Oil
Derived from the neem tree, this natural oil disrupts scale growth and development. Combine with a small amount of dish soap and water, then spray all parts of plant. For best results, apply neem oil every 7-14 days for 3-4 weeks. It also acts as a repellent against future infestations.
Systemic Insecticides
These insecticides are absorbed by the plants and make their tissues and juices toxic to feeding scales. They provide longer residual control than contact insecticides. Apply as a soil drench or directed spray. Be sure to read and follow label directions carefully.
How to Prevent Scales from Returning
- Inspect plants frequently – early detection makes scales easier to control
- Prune out heavily infested branches
- Promote air circulation with proper spacing and pruning
- Use a forceful spray of water to dislodge scales
- Apply horticultural oils/insecticidal soaps as a repellent
- Introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs that feed on scales
-
Scales are tiny sap-sucking insects that can severely damage African daisy plants.
-
Look for bumps on plant parts, honeydew, and distorted growth to identify them.
-
Remove manually, apply horticultural oils, insecticidal soaps or neem oil to kill scales.
-
Prune infested parts, promote air flow, inspect regularly and use repellents to prevent future infestations.
-
With vigilance and prompt treatment, you can get rid of scales for good and enjoy scale-free African daisies.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/KaraRiley-11-H-800070f5e7874de9a7850a5558550d56.jpg)
Life Cycle of Scale Bugs
Adult females lay eggs underneath their protective covering which hatch over a period of one to three weeks. The newly hatched nymphs (called crawlers) migrate out from this covering and move about the plant until a suitable feeding site is found.
Young nymphs insert their piercing mouthparts into the plant and begin to feed, gradually developing their own armor as they transform into immobile adults. They do not pupate and may have several overlapping generations per year, especially in greenhouses.
Note: Males of many species develop wings as adults and appear as tiny gnat-like insects. They are rarely seen and do not feed on plants. Females often reproduce without mating.
How to Control and Get Rid of Scale on Plants Effectively
Getting rid of scales is a combination of a few very simple steps that will give you perfectly healthy plants that are free of these insects. Let’s look at what these are:
The COMPLETE Guide to Getting Rid of Scale Insects
FAQ
How do you permanently get rid of scale on plants?
Does vinegar get rid of scale on plants?
How do I care for African daisies?
Here are our African daisy care tips you can follow: When choosing a location to plant African daisies, full sun is always best. African daisies grow best in full sun, and while they can grow in light shade, they will produce fewer flowers.
How often should you water African daisies?
Water your African daisies once per week. If you’re watering by hand, give your plants 10 cups of water at each watering session (2.4 liters). If you are using a soaker hose, run the hose for 30 minutes every time you water. African daisies are fairly drought tolerant, but extreme heat can take a toll on your flowers.
Do African daisies rot?
Root rot is a common problem for African daisies if they do not have proper drainage in the soil. African daisies are particularly prone to root rot because they are built to be drought resistant. An overabundance of water will overwhelm the root system and, over-time, can cause it to go soft and rot.
How do you Deadhead African daisies?
You can also use your fingers to pinch and snap the stems off. Follow the stem down to where you see new flowers starting to bud, and pinch the dead flower and stem off. Deadheading African daisies in my garden by pinching the stems off where new flowers are starting to bud.