I got some dracaena on sale at lowes-cheap, and when I got them home I noticed something on them- armored scale I believe its called-
not one with a lot patience, I skipped the alcohol,soaps, ect., and went straight for the NEEM oil
sprayed it several times over the course of 2 weeks, and it doesn't look any worse, but looks no better either
someone said the scale wont fall off when it dies, so it may look the same until you physically scrape it off--
is this true???
Hi Goodgreen, An elderly man (87) I was taking care of had a large schefflera from his wifes' funeral five years prior. The scale infestation was so bad a lot of the leaves were black. I used soapy water and a cloth and washed each leaf, stem and cane. Some of the scale came off on the cloth but most I had to use my fingernail to scratch off. All the hours spent doing this during his nap times over a period of days was worth it when I saw his smile and tears of appreciation. (Love my job!)
JOY- thanks for the info. Since it doesn't look any worse, I figured the dead scale was just stuck on the leaves......
The scale may protect the little bugger from the neem. I'd scrape it off and squish it or alcohol swab them off, unless you like them.
I'm editing to say sorry. I didn't mean to sound well, mean. Anyway, the shield they build can actually protect the bug and that's why I consider it necessary to remove them whenever possible. And spray, too. Happy New Year.
This message was edited Jan 1, 2010 5:15 PM
Hi Goodgreen, An elderly man (87) I was taking care of had a large schefflera from his wifes' funeral five years prior. The scale infestation was so bad a lot of the leaves were black. I used soapy water and a cloth and washed each leaf, stem and cane. Some of the scale came off on the cloth but most I had to use my fingernail to scratch off. All the hours spent doing this during his nap times over a period of days was worth it when I saw his smile and tears of appreciation. (Love my job!)
Thank you hedy. My late father always told us to treat people the way we want to be treated so thats what I do. This world would be a lot better place if everyone followed my Dad's advice. I learn so much from the elderly and I dearly love them. I pray someone will be there to make my last days joyful.
By the way hedy, I see you just joined DG (Daves Garden) and I'd like to welcome you to the crowd! This a wonderful informative website and a great place to make gardening friends. Any questions - just ask. :o) I have a daughter in Newport, NC
