Treating Scale on Braided Ficus benjamina

Scale Management on Weeping Fig

A 5-foot braided ficus with scale on sunburned sections needs pruning + treatment.

Step 1: Prune First

Remove all damaged leaves and leggy stems. Prune symmetrically. This makes treatment easier and reduces pest habitat.

Step 2: Identify Scale

• Young: translucent, oval, ⅛ inch, on stems/leaf undersides.
• Mature: hard, dark brown shells.
• Sign: sticky honeydew on leaves/furniture.

Step 3: Non-Toxic Treatments

1. Brand X Foliage Cleaner (silicon-based, penetrates crevices).
2. Alcohol spray: 1:5 alcohol:water + soap. Thorough coverage, repeat in 5–7 days.
3. Hot Pepper Wax (cayenne-based).
4. Neem oil (dilute, add Pine-Sol for odor).

Critical Rules

• Never spray in direct sun or high heat.
• Drench all surfaces until dripping.
• Weekly checks after treatment.

Pruning + thorough spraying = control.