Scale on Hibiscus: Identification and Treatment

Brown/black bumps on hibiscus bark that scrape off are scale insects. Soap treatments may have killed them, but shells remain until physically removed.

Removal & Prevention

1. Scrape off shells with fingers, alcohol-dipped cotton, or paper towel.
2. Spray with rubbing alcohol or neem oil (available at Lowe's).
3. Repeat twice weekly for 3 weeks to catch hatchlings.
4. Monitor all plants regularly—scale is increasing in prevalence.

Notes

• Scale can be cream, green, clear, or brown.
• Check leaf undersides and stems.
• Neem oil is safe for indoor use around kids/pets.

Persistence eliminates scale.