Scale Insects on Indoor Orange Tree: Soap Sprays, Not Peroxide

A 3-year-old seed-grown orange tree had sticky honeydew and scale insects on leaves and stems. Wiping gave temporary relief. The expert confirmed: scale insects (related to aphids)—adults are immobile under waxy covers; crawlers are the vulnerable stage.

Treatment: Weekly insecticidal soap (see guide) until gone—can take weeks. Systemic insecticides (imidacloprid) are an option but more hazardous. Avoid dish soap + hydrogen peroxide—can damage foliage. Scale infestations are common on long-term indoor plants.