Scales
Adult scales are protected by a black, brown or tan hard covering. Immature scales or crawlers emerge from eggs deposited under the female's protective scale. Once crawlers establish a feeding site, they begin to secrete the hardened covering over their body. Scale damage is caused by sucking plant sap which will greatly reduce the vigor as populations build. These insects secrete honeydew on which black, sooty mold may develop.
Control
Dip or spray plants using malathion.** To insure wetting of mealybugs, add mild household detergent (not soap) at a rate of 1/2 teaspoon per gallon of water with solution. May also use pyrethrin, rotenone or resmethrin (combinations) as a spray. Apply granules to the soil as a systemic using Di-Syston.*
*Household Formulation WARNING Poisoning may occur as a result of exposure AVOID contact with skin, eyes or clothing **Do not use on Boston, Maidenhair and Pterls ferns, some species of Crassula, Gloxinia, Saintpulla (African violets), and begonias.
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