Controlling Cycad Scale on Sago Palms: Oil and Systemic Treatments

White Stuff Is Cycad Aulacaspis Scale

The white, fuzzy coating on sago palms (Cycas revoluta) is an armored scale insect. It spreads fast and kills if untreated.

Two-Pronged Attack

1. Horticultural oil (Ultra-Fine Oil): suffocates scale on contact. Spray thoroughly, especially undersides.
2. Systemic drench (Bayer Advanced Tree & Shrub): roots absorb it; scale dies when feeding.

Ongoing Management

Repeat oil every 2–3 weeks during crawler stages. Systemic lasts months. Complete eradication is unlikely; control is the goal. Treat all sagos simultaneously.