How to Treat Scale on Croton Plants Effectively

Black Spots That Wipe Off Purple = Scale Insects

Scale have soft bodies under hard shells. Wiping removes adults but misses translucent juveniles in crevices.

Spray Treatment

1. Mix 5 parts water, 1 part rubbing alcohol, 1 squirt liquid dish soap.
2. Spray all leaf and stem surfaces until dripping wet.
3. One thorough treatment usually works; monitor for recurrence.

Repotting Caused Stress

Using garden soil/compost introduced problems. "High-grade indoor soil" doesn't exist. Unnecessary repotting → root rot risk. Now: water carefully, keep on sunny windowsill.