Palm Houseplant White Bumps: Asian Cycad Scale or Mealybug?

Observation

White bubbly things on frond fronts of large-fronded palm houseplant.

Expert Response (Kathy)

Identifies as Asian Cycad Scale (on sago palm/Cycas). Recommends Atomic Grow: dehydrates scale, stimulates growth, cleans plant, organic.

Critical Issues

• Plant may not be a cycad (sago) — could be true palm (Chamaedorea, Howea, etc.).
• White bubbly = more likely mealybugs (common on palms) or soft scale.
• Asian cycad scale = specific to cycads, not true palms.

Proper Steps

1. ID plant: palm vs. cycad (feather leaves vs. stiff, shiny leaflets).
2. ID pest: Mealybugs (cottony, mobile) vs. Scale (stuck, hard/soft shell).
3. Treat: Insecticidal soap/Neem for mealybugs; Horticultural oil + systemic for scale.
4. Atomic Grow unproven for mealybugs on true palms.