How to Get Rid of Scales on Ruby Necklace Plant

The Ruby Necklace plant, also known as the Othonna capensis, is a popular succulent with its unique trailing vines and vibrant red or purple leaves. However, just like any other plant, it can be susceptible to pests. One common pest that can infest the Ruby Necklace plant is scales.

Scales are small, oval-shaped insects that attach themselves to the leaves and stems of plants, where they feed on sap. They are often mistaken for part of the plant due to their protective covering, which resembles scales or shells. If left untreated, scales can weaken the plant and cause damage to its overall health.

If you have noticed scales on your Ruby Necklace plant, don’t panic! There are several steps you can take to get rid of them and restore your plant’s health. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Identify the Scales

Before you begin treatment, it’s essential to correctly identify the scales on your Ruby Necklace plant. Scales come in different colors and sizes, depending on the species. They can be white, brown, black, or even translucent. You may also notice a sticky residue on the leaves or tiny black dots, which are their excrement.

Step 2: Isolate Infected Plants

To prevent scales from spreading to other plants in your collection, it’s crucial to isolate the infected Ruby Necklace plant. Move it away from other plants and keep a close eye on nearby plants for any signs of infestation.

Step 3: Manual Removal

One effective way to control scale infestation is through manual removal. Using a pair of tweezers or a soft brush, carefully scrape off the scales from the leaves and stems of the Ruby Necklace plant. Be gentle to avoid damaging the plant tissue.

Step 4: Wash with Soapy Water

After manually removing as many scales as possible, it’s time to give your Ruby Necklace plant a thorough wash. Prepare a solution of mild liquid soap and lukewarm water. Dip a soft cloth or sponge into the soapy water and gently wipe down the leaves, stems, and any affected areas. This will help remove any remaining scales and their protective covering.

Step 5: Apply Neem Oil

Neem oil is a natural insecticide that can effectively control scale infestations. Dilute neem oil according to the manufacturer’s instructions and transfer it to a spray bottle. Spray the diluted neem oil onto the leaves, stems, and affected areas of the Ruby Necklace plant. Be sure to cover both the upper and lower surfaces of the leaves.

Neem oil works by suffocating the scales and disrupting their life cycle. It also acts as a deterrent, preventing further infestations. Repeat this process every seven to ten days until all signs of scales are gone.

Step 6: Monitor and Maintain

After treating your Ruby Necklace plant for scales, it’s essential to monitor its progress and continue proper maintenance. Regularly inspect the plant for any signs of new infestations or reoccurrence of scales. Ensure you provide optimal growing conditions, including adequate sunlight, well-draining soil, and appropriate watering.

Additional Tips:

• Prune Infested Areas: If the scale infestation is severe or widespread, you may need to prune away heavily infested areas. Dispose of pruned plant material properly to prevent the scales from spreading.

• Avoid Overwatering: Scales are attracted to plants that are stressed or weakened. To prevent future infestations, avoid overwatering your Ruby Necklace plant and ensure proper drainage to prevent waterlogged soil.

• Improve Air Circulation: Scales thrive in humid environments with poor airflow. Increase air circulation around your plants by placing them near a fan or opening windows to reduce humidity.

• Inspect New Plants: Before introducing new plants to your collection, thoroughly inspect them for any signs of pests, including scales. Quarantine new plants for a few weeks to ensure they are pest-free before placing them near existing plants.

With proper care and diligent monitoring, you can successfully get rid of scales on your Ruby Necklace plant and restore its health and beauty. Remember to be patient and consistent in your treatment efforts, as it may take some time to completely eradicate the infestation.