Cochineal Scale on Large Cacti: Same Pest, Bigger Challenge

Identical Diagnosis

White cottony patches on large cacti = cochineal scale. Same tiny black insects, same red dye, same fatal progression if ignored.

Treatment at Scale

1. Dish soap + water in pump sprayer (not handheld).
2. Soak all patches thoroughly.
3. High-pressure hose blast—reach upper stems.
4. Repeat weekly.
5. Monitor for ants (scale farmers).

Why This Year?

Population explosion often follows mild winters or stressed plants. Not necessarily a care error—scale is opportunistic.

Persistence wins. Large plants recover fully with thorough treatment.