Question
I've had a peace lily on my back porch for about 2 years.  This morning, I was cutting dead leaves when I noticed littel tan bumps on the leaves and stems (I think scale?).  I also noticed a fine black dust on the leaves that may or may not be related.  If the plant does have scale or fungus, I'd love to find a natural remedy - I don't like pesticides.  Thank you for your help!!

Answer
Jennifer:
There are several different looking scale insects. I usually see those that are about 1-2 mm in diameter, round and somewhat raised off the surface of the leaf. To help confirm, use your fingernail and see if you can "flick" it or scrape it off the surface of the leaf w/o damaging the leaf.  If you have just a few, you can physically remove them with your fingernail or remove the leaves that contain a lot of them.  You may wish to look into trying insecticidal soap.  There are several brands out there- I prefer Safer Brand Insecticidal Soap.  It is a natural non synthetic product effective for many insects like scale and aphids. Try it on a leaf or two first - to be sure it will not cause injury.  You can also visit w/ your garden center about its safety on peace lily.

The black fine dust may be sooty mold. It is a fungus that grows on the sugary excrement of insects called honeydew. It should wipe off the leaves with a wet paper towel.  The solution is to control the insects that produces the honeydew.

If, after reading my answer you think you may have something else, feel free to take a closeup photo and send.  Be sure to review it on your computer first- to be sure it is in focus before you send.

Steve