Tiny Red Spots on Sago Palm: Scale Insects or Spider Mites

Tiny Red Spots on Sago Palm: Scale Insects or Spider Mites

A small potted sago palm with yellowing fronds and tiny red spots—some brush off, some embedded—likely has scale insects (oval, raised, scrape off) or spider mites (microscopic, cause stippling). Both suck sap, causing yellowing.

Treatment

• Bayer Advanced Tree and Shrub Insecticide soil drench per label.
• Systemic action kills both pests in 1–2 weeks.
• Provides up to 1 year protection.
• Available at Home Depot.

Additional Care

• Ensure pot has drainage; water when top inch dry.
• Provide bright, indirect light.
• Fertilize with balanced palm fertilizer.

Early treatment prevents permanent frond loss and plant decline.