Ficus Tree Scale Infestation: Systemic Insecticide Solution

10-year-old, 8-foot ficus oozes sap, has black bumps on branches, half the tree dead. Owner sprayed fungicide 3x/week.

Diagnosis: Scale Insects, Not Fungus

• Black bumps = scale (scrape off with knife).
• "Sap" = honeydew (insect excrement).
• Fungicide useless against insects.

Treatment

1. Bayer Tree & Shrub Protect & Feed (liquid systemic) – mix per label for potted plants. Kills scale, protects 12 months.
2. Alternative: Spray insecticide every 2–3 days.
3. Do NOT prune dead wood yet – wait 4 months for possible regrowth.

Watering & Pot Size

Water only when soil dries well. Large pots stay wet too long – consider root pruning (cut 2–3" off rootball) and top pruning (6" off canopy) to balance.