Scale insects, the + 1.5 mm insects are found worldwide.
Scale insects (Coccomorpha). The + 1.5 mm insects are found worldwide. There are about seven thousand species of scale insects. Scale insects are flat and sometimes difficult to see because they look like incipient buds or growths. Scale insects are oval in shape and are enveloped in an “armor” of wax.
The insects live off plant sap.
Parasitoid wasps, ladybirds, predator beetles and lacewings are among the natural enemies of scale insects.
Where to find
- Green house
- Houseplants
- Vegetable plot and ornamental garden
Control
Fighting it is difficult.
For houseplants: spirit or alcohol diluted half with water makes scale insects disappear. A hefty amount of table salt dissolved in water also works. However, each individual scale insect must be dabbed with this mixture, such as with a cotton swab or brush soaked in the solution.
Canola oil is an outdoor pesticide; However, it is not selective and therefore also kills beneficial insects (bees, bumblebees, ladybugs).
Prevention
For outdoors: parasitoid wasps and ladybugs are the natural enemies; offers these insects a pleasant environment.
