Question
Hello Will,
I just read an entry from a lady named Sara about her spider palm having scale. I am beginning to think my palm has scale. I have treated it twice with a soapy organic type solution but the scale keeps coming back - or maybe I missed some the two times and they are just spreading. I hate to get rid of the palm but am frustrated - its really large. In its vicinity are: an orchid, 'lucky bamboo', ficus, another palm, a sort of prayer plant but large (don't know what it is exactly but it puts up its leaves at night), another orchid and a pink anthurium. Thanks once again for your help, Susanne

Answer
Hi Susanne,

Based on the photo you submitted, I don't think your Palm has scale insects. Scale insects are about the size of a match head. They appear as slightly raised bumps that scrape off easily with a fingernail leaving a soft, slighty gooey substance behind. They do not look like black lines.

If you can confirm that scale insects are what you are seeing, then I can tell you how to properly treat them. Otherwise, I will need a good photo to be able to tell just what you are seeing.

I have written articles on identifying and treating indoor plant pests and on Palm care that I will email for free to you (or anyone else) who emails a request to me at [email protected].

Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions.

If this information has been helpful, please click the Rate Volunteer bar below and enter a rating and nomination for me. I am a volunteer on this site so Ratings are the only compensation I receive for answering plant questions.

Need more information? Visit my website at:
A link to HorticulturalHelp.com

or email me at [email protected] or call me at 917-887-8601 (EST)
 
Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

Visit my website at: A link to HorticulturalHelp.com