How to Get Rid of Scales on Citrus Plant

Citrus plants are a common sight in many gardens and homes, but they are not immune to pests and diseases. One of the most common pests that attack citrus plants is scales. Scales are small, oval-shaped insects that attach themselves to the leaves and stems of the plant, and feed on its sap. If left unchecked, they can cause significant damage to the plant, stunting its growth and even killing it. In this article, we will discuss how to get rid of scales on citrus plants.

Identify the Type of Scale

There are two types of scales that commonly infest citrus plants: armored scales and soft scales. Armored scales have a hard, protective covering over their bodies, which makes them difficult to control. Soft scales, on the other hand, have a waxy coating that makes them easier to control.

To identify the type of scale on your citrus plant, gently scrape off a few of the insects from the plant with a fingernail or a knife. If you see a hard, protective covering over their bodies, you have armored scales. If not, then you have soft scales.

Natural Methods to Control Scales

If you have a minor infestation of scales on your citrus plant, you can use some natural methods to control them. Here are some options:

1. Neem Oil

Neem oil is an excellent organic pesticide that can help control scales on citrus plants. It contains azadirachtin, which is toxic to insects. Dilute neem oil with water and spray it on the affected parts of your citrus plant.

2. Insecticidal Soap

Insecticidal soap made from potassium salts of fatty acids can also be used to control scales. The soap works by breaking down the waxy coating of soft scales and causing dehydration.

3. Horticultural Oil

Horticultural oil is another organic pesticide that can control scales on citrus plants. It works by suffocating the insects and their eggs. You can dilute horticultural oil with water and spray it on the affected parts of your citrus plant.

Chemical Methods to Control Scales

If you have a severe infestation of scales on your citrus plant, you may need to resort to chemical methods to control them. Here are some chemical options:

1. Systemic Insecticides

Systemic insecticides are absorbed by the plant and kill the scales when they feed on the plant’s sap. Imidacloprid is a systemic insecticide that is effective against scales.

2. Contact Insecticides

Contact insecticides work by killing the scales on contact. Malathion is a contact insecticide that is effective against scales.

Preventing Scale Infestation

Prevention is always better than cure. Here are some steps you can take to prevent scale infestation on your citrus plants:

• Regularly inspect your citrus plants for any signs of scale infestation.
• Prune any damaged or diseased branches from your citrus plant.
• Keep your citrus plants healthy with proper watering and fertilization.
• Use sticky traps to catch adult scales before they lay eggs.
• Avoid over-fertilizing your citrus plants, as this can attract pests.

FAQ

Can scales harm humans?

No, scales do not harm humans.

Can I eat the fruit from a citrus plant that has been treated with insecticides?

It is best to wait for a few weeks after applying insecticides before consuming fruits from a treated plant.

How often should I inspect my citrus plants for scale infestation?

You should inspect your citrus plants at least once a month for any signs of scale infestation.