Question
What product can I use to eradicate a "white scale" on my Sago Palms

Answer
Hi Bill,

There are many horticultural oils that can be applied that can control scale insect infestation.  These oils can cause damage if they are not used according to manufacturer's directions.  Air temperature is very important; the oil can be used in both mild and warm climates at different concentrations.

Contact your local garden center for help in selecting the right oil for your location.  Some of the names that you might see in describing the oil are: dormant oil, summer oil and Volck oil.


There are also insecticidal soaps that can control "crawlers", the juvenile stages of scale insects.  Some people have also used insecticidal drenches applied to the soil and taken up by the root systems.

Scales are tenacious, and multiple applications of insecticides and oils may be necessary to control heavy infestation.