Scale found

[Chris1140]

Today I found an adult scale attached to the newest bulb on my Lycaste. The plan is to spray with both alcohol and insecticidal soap and see how it goes. Years ago when I had a greenhouse I was constantly battling scale. My strategy was to go over each plant carefully and physically crush every insect. I did this twice a week and eventually got the upper hand. Of course I had to remove all dried sheaths, etc. to expose all their hiding places. Anyone have a better idea?

[tucker85]

My favorite tool is a medium bristle toothbrush. I use Safer's Insecticide Soap and a tooth brush to clean all the pseudobulbs and remove the papery outer layer on cattleyas. Scale is often under those. I've found that the scale doesn't need to be removed from the pot. As long as they're dislodged from the plant and drenched with insecticide soap they'll be killed.

[sammywolffox]

I purchased a plant at a box store and introduced scale to my collection. I used the traditional isopropyl alcohol/Q-tip method of treatment in conjunction with insecticidal spray. I was able to control but not eradicate the scale insects. I was looking for a method of treatment that was less time consuming and more effective. I found a recipe on the internet that has worked very well for me. In a 24 ounce spray bottle I mix a 50:50 solution of isopropyl alcohol(70%) and water. I added a few drops of liquid detergent (mild) as a spreader. I also added one teaspoon of neem oil. I removed all dried sheaths. I used the spray once a week for four weeks and have had no further scale problems. I am an orchid hobbyist and certainly not an expert but this method appears to be effective---good luck with these pesky little critters!