Question
I've had a peace lily on my back porch for 3 years.  I was cutting dead leaves this morning and noticed little tan bumps on the leaves and stems (I think scale?)  I also noticed a lot of black dust on the leaves that could actually be dust...it rubbed off easily with a wet rag.  Picture attached...If it is sick, I'm very interested in natural remedies - I'm not a fan of pesticides.  Thank you in advance!!

Answer
Hi Jennifer,

Your brief description certainly does suggest scale insects, which do favor Peace Lilies. I, too, am not a fan of pesticides.

Mix a solution of 5 parts water, 1 part rubbing alcohol and a squirt of liquid soap. Then, thoroughly drench all leaf and stem surfaces until they are dripping wet. Thoroughness is the key to success. Do this outside or in a place where you don't mind making a mess.

Wipe the leaves so that you remove any visible hard-shelled scales. If you are thorough, one treatment usually does the trick. However, you should always be vigilant in monitoring for critters in the future.

Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions.

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