Identification
Immobile, brown or yellowish shields (1–4 mm) attached to stems and the underside of leaves, especially along the veins. Easily mistaken for growths on the plant. They suck sap, causing yellowing and weakening, and excrete sticky honeydew. Common on figs, orchids and plants with tough leaves.
Treatment
Scraping off the shields, wiping with a cotton bud soaked in alcohol, potassium soap and oil-based preparations (which block the scales' respiration). Systemic products for heavy infestations. Regular inspection of the leaf undersides allows the pest to be detected early.
Sources
- Atlas of ornamental-plant pests
