How to Get Rid of Scales on Monkey Plant

Scales are pesky insects that can infest and damage various plants, including the popular Monkey Plant (Philodendron bipinnatifidum). These tiny pests attach themselves to the leaves and stems of the plant, sucking out its sap and causing yellowing, wilting, and overall decline in its health.

If you have noticed scales on your Monkey Plant, it is crucial to take action promptly to prevent further damage and ensure the plant’s recovery. In this article, we will discuss effective methods to get rid of scales and restore the health of your beloved plant.

Understanding Scales

Before we delve into the solutions, let’s understand what scales are and how they affect your Monkey Plant. Scales are small insects that belong to the order Hemiptera. They have a hard, protective shell-like covering that resembles fish scales, hence their name.

These insects feed on the sap of plants by piercing their tissues with their needle-like mouthparts. As they feed, they release a sticky substance called honeydew, which can attract ants and promote the growth of sooty mold on the plant’s surface.

Identifying Scale Infestation

To effectively treat scale infestation, it is essential to identify it early on. Here are some signs that your Monkey Plant may be infested with scales:

1. Presence of small, oval-shaped bumps on leaves and stems.
2. Yellowing or wilting of leaves.
3. Sticky residue on the plant’s surface.
4. Presence of ants or sooty mold.

Manual Removal

One of the first steps in getting rid of scales is manually removing them from your Monkey Plant. This method is suitable for light infestations and can be done using the following steps:

1. Put on a pair of gloves to protect your hands from direct contact with the scales.
2. Inspect the plant carefully, identifying the heavily infested areas.
3. Use a cotton swab or a soft cloth soaked in rubbing alcohol to gently wipe off the scales from the leaves and stems. Be sure to reach all the nooks and crannies where scales may be hiding.
4. Dispose of the cotton swabs or cloth properly to prevent re-infestation.

Horticultural Oil Spray

Horticultural oil sprays are an effective and organic solution for controlling scales on Monkey Plants. These oils suffocate and kill the scales by covering their bodies and blocking their breathing pores.

To use horticultural oil spray:

1. Choose an appropriate horticultural oil spray product, preferably one labeled for scale control.
2. Dilute the oil spray according to the instructions provided by the manufacturer.
3. Spray the diluted oil solution onto all parts of the Monkey Plant, ensuring thorough coverage.
4. Pay extra attention to the undersides of leaves and areas with heavy scale infestations.
5. Repeat the application as directed, usually every 7-14 days, until all scales are eradicated.

Insecticidal Soap

Insecticidal soap is another effective and environmentally friendly option for treating scale infestations on Monkey Plants. It works by breaking down the protective outer waxy layer of scales, eventually leading to their demise.

Here’s how to use insecticidal soap:

1. Purchase a commercial insecticidal soap specifically formulated for scale control.
2. Mix the soap concentrate with water according to the instructions provided on the label.
3. Using a sprayer or spray bottle, apply the diluted insecticidal soap solution to all parts of the plant affected by scales.
4. Ensure thorough coverage, including the undersides of leaves and hidden crevices.
5. Repeat the application as directed, usually every 7-10 days, until the scales are eliminated.

Neem Oil

Neem oil is a natural insecticide derived from the neem tree, native to India and other parts of Southeast Asia. It has both insecticidal and anti-fungal properties, making it an excellent choice for controlling scales on Monkey Plants.

To use neem oil:

1. Purchase cold-pressed neem oil from a reputable supplier.
2. Dilute the neem oil according to the instructions provided on the label.
3. Apply the diluted neem oil solution to all parts of the Monkey Plant, making sure to cover both sides of the leaves and stems.
4. Repeat the application every 7-14 days until all scales are eradicated.

Conclusion

Scales can pose a significant threat to the health and beauty of your Monkey Plant. However, with prompt action and the right treatment methods, you can successfully eliminate these pesky insects and restore your plant’s vitality.

Remember, prevention is always better than cure. Regularly inspect your plants for signs of scale infestation and take immediate action at the first sight of these pests. By implementing manual removal, horticultural oil sprays, insecticidal soaps, or neem oil treatments, you can protect your Monkey Plant from scales and enjoy its lush foliage for years to come.