How to Get Rid of Scales on Crossandra Plant

Crossandra plants are beautiful tropical plants that produce stunning orange, yellow, and red flowers. They are easy to care for, and they can add a pop of color to any indoor or outdoor garden. However, like any other plant, crossandra plants are susceptible to pest infestations, especially scale insects.

Scale insects are tiny pests that attach themselves to the leaves and stems of plants and suck out the sap from the plant’s tissues. They leave behind a sticky substance called honeydew, which can attract other pests like ants and mold. If left untreated, scale insects can cause stunted growth, wilted leaves, and eventually lead to the death of the plant.

In this article, we will provide you with tips and tricks on how to get rid of scales on your crossandra plant.

Identify the Scale Insects

The first step in getting rid of scales on your crossandra plant is to identify the type of scale insect that is infesting your plant. There are two types of scale insects – armored scales and soft scales.

Armored scales have a hard protective covering that makes them difficult to kill. They usually appear as small bumps on the leaves and stems of plants. Soft scales, on the other hand, do not have a protective covering, and they appear as small, oval-shaped insects that are covered in a waxy substance.

To identify the scale insect on your crossandra plant, use a magnifying glass to inspect the leaves and stems for any bumps, discoloration or sticky substance.

Remove Scales Manually

If you have noticed only a few scales on your crossandra plant, you can remove them manually using a cotton swab dipped in alcohol or soapy water. Gently wipe the swab over each scale until it comes off. Be sure to dispose of the cotton swab after each use to prevent the spread of scales to other parts of the plant.

Prune Infested Parts

If the scale infestation is severe, you may need to prune the infested parts of the plant. Use a pair of sharp, sterile scissors to cut off the affected leaves and stems. Be sure to dispose of the pruned parts in a plastic bag and seal it before disposing of it. This will prevent the spread of scales to other plants in your garden.

Use Insecticidal Soap

Insecticidal soap is a natural and effective way to get rid of scales on your crossandra plant. It works by suffocating the scale insects and disrupting their life cycle. Purchase an insecticidal soap from your local gardening store or make your own by mixing a few drops of dish soap with water.

Spray the insecticidal soap directly on the affected areas of your crossandra plant, making sure to cover both the tops and undersides of leaves and stems. Repeat this process every 7-10 days until all of the scales have been eliminated.

Apply Neem Oil

Neem oil is another natural and effective way to get rid of scales on your crossandra plant. It works by disrupting the feeding and reproductive activity of scale insects. Purchase neem oil from your local gardening store and mix it with water according to the instructions on the label.

Spray the neem oil solution directly onto the affected areas of your crossandra plant, making sure to cover both the tops and undersides of leaves and stems. Repeat this process every 7-10 days until all of the scales have been eliminated.

Maintain Plant Health

One of the best ways to prevent scale infestations on your crossandra plant is to maintain its overall health. Make sure that your plant is getting enough sunlight, water, and nutrients. Avoid over-fertilizing your plant as this can attract pests like scales.

Regularly inspect your crossandra plant for any signs of scales or other pests. Catching an infestation early can make it easier to get rid of.

FAQ

Can I use rubbing alcohol to get rid of scales on my crossandra plant?

Yes, you can use rubbing alcohol to remove scales from your crossandra plant. Dip a cotton swab in rubbing alcohol and gently wipe each scale until it comes off.

How often should I apply insecticidal soap or neem oil to my crossandra plant?

You should apply insecticidal soap or neem oil every 7-10 days until all of the scales have been eliminated.

Can scales kill my crossandra plant?

Yes, if left untreated, scale infestations can cause stunted growth, wilted leaves, and eventually lead to the death of the plant.

How can I prevent scale infestations on my crossandra plant?

To prevent scale infestations on your crossandra plant, maintain its overall health by providing it with enough sunlight, water, and nutrients. Regularly inspect your plant for any signs of scales or other pests. Avoid over-fertilizing your plant as this can attract pests like scales.