Sago Palm White Scale: New Lethal Disease, Try Oil/Neem

Grim Reality

A new, lethal disease (likely Cycad aulacaspis scale + associated fungi) is killing sagos globally. No cure exists. Pre-hurricane, sagos were already pest-prone.

Last-Ditch Attempts

1. Horticultural oil: Suffocates scale. Spray thoroughly (undersides critical). Repeat 3× at 2-week intervals. Temperature-sensitive (45–85°F).
2. Scrape + oil: Physically remove scales with soft brush, then spray oil.
3. Neem oil: Alternative; may suppress crawlers.

Monitor Closely

If new growth emerges clean, treatment may be suppressing. If decline continues, remove and destroy plant to protect others.

This is a losing battle for most. Consider replacing with dioon, zamia, or other cycads less affected.