Sago Palm White Dusting: Asian Cycad Scale or Fungus?

Sago palm (5 ft, Houston) has 4 dead fronds, light white dusting on ferns. Neighbor's sago similar. How to treat?

Likely: Asian Cycad Scale (Aulacaspis yasumatsui)

• White, cottony scales on veins, stems, leaves
• Invasive, devastating—kills untreated sagos
• Spreads via wind, birds, nursery stock

Management

• Light infestation: Prune/destroy affected fronds
• Heavy infestation: Systemic imidacloprid soil drench + horticultural oil sprays
• Severe: Many experts recommend removal—no reliable cure

Fungal Alternative

Sagos also get fungal leaf spots—but "white dusting" + regional spread suggests scale.

Action

1. Confirm ID (magnifying glass)
2. Contact TX AgriLife Extension for local status
3. If scale: treat aggressively or remove

This pest is transforming sago cultivation in the South.