How to Get Rid of Scales on Ghost Succulent Plant

Succulents are becoming increasingly popular among plant enthusiasts and the ghost succulent is one of the most sought-after varieties. However, like any other plant, they are vulnerable to pests and diseases. One common problem that affects ghost succulent plants is scale insects.

Scale insects are small, oval-shaped pests that attach themselves to the leaves and stems of plants, including ghost succulents. They feed on the sap of the plant, causing yellowing or browning of leaves, stunted growth and even death if left untreated. In this article, we will discuss how to get rid of scales on ghost succulent plants.

Identify the Scales

Before treating the scales, it’s important to make sure that what you’re dealing with is indeed scales. Scale insects look like small bumps or scales on the plant’s leaves and stems. They may be brown or black in color and can be mistaken for part of the plant. To confirm their presence, gently scrape off a bump with your fingernail or a toothbrush. If it comes off easily and reveals a soft, yellow or brown body underneath, then it’s a scale insect.

Remove Scales Manually

If you have only a few scales on your ghost succulent plant, you can remove them manually using a toothbrush or cotton swab dipped in alcohol. Gently scrub the affected areas to dislodge the scales and wipe them off with a damp cloth. Be careful not to damage the plant’s leaves or stems while doing this.

Use Insecticidal Soap

Insecticidal soap is an effective treatment for scale insects on ghost succulent plants. It’s a non-toxic spray that contains fatty acids that dissolve the waxy coating of scale insects, causing them to dehydrate and die. To use insecticidal soap, spray it directly on the affected areas of the plant, making sure to cover both sides of the leaves and stems. Repeat this process every seven to ten days until the scales are gone.

Apply Neem Oil

Neem oil is another natural remedy for scale insects on ghost succulent plants. It contains azadirachtin, a compound that disrupts the insect’s hormonal system, preventing it from feeding and reproducing. To use neem oil, mix one tablespoon of neem oil with one gallon of water and spray it on the affected areas of the plant. Repeat this process every two weeks until the scales are gone.

Quarantine Infested Plants

If you have multiple plants and one of them is infested with scales, it’s important to quarantine it to prevent the spread of the pests. Move the infested plant away from other plants and treat it separately until the scales are gone.

Maintain Optimal Growing Conditions

Prevention is always better than cure. To prevent scale insects from attacking your ghost succulent plant, maintain optimal growing conditions. Ghost succulents prefer bright sunlight, well-draining soil, and moderate watering. Overwatering or placing the plant in a location with low light can weaken it and make it more susceptible to pests and diseases.

FAQ

Can scale insects kill ghost succulent plants?

Yes, if left untreated, scale insects can cause death in ghost succulent plants by depriving them of essential nutrients.

Can I use vinegar to get rid of scales on ghost succulent plants?

While vinegar can be effective in killing scale insects, it can also damage the plant’s leaves and stems. It’s best to use insecticidal soap or neem oil instead.

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

You should apply insecticidal soap or neem oil every seven to ten days or every two weeks until the scales are gone.