White Stuff on Pygmy Date Palm: Likely Aulacaspis Scale

Symptom

Pygmy date palm from Lowe's. White stuff on center leaves (new growth area). Scrapes off with fingernail—looks like paint, not bugs. Desert climate, 105°F, watered 9 PM and 5 AM. Rubbing alcohol didn't help.

Identification: Aulacaspis Scale

Usually on King Sago, but can hit pygmy dates. Tiny armored scales—white, paint-like. Multiply rapidly, kill palm if untreated.

Urgent Treatment

1. Spray horticultural oil + insecticidal drench (Bayer Rose & Flower Drench).
2. Repeat per label.
3. Send photo for confirmation if possible.

Why Alcohol Failed

Scale armor protects them. Oil suffocates; drench systemically kills feeders.