Question
Hi Will,
My peperomia is infested with scale. The is a syrupy oder coming the plant the "bugs" are on about 40-50% of the leaves and stems. I want to save the plant and willing to put in the effort. I think at this point I need to consider using an insectide, as there are far too many "bugs" to just remove them. What would you suggest? I did an internet search and found many different suggestions that contradicted each other.

Thank you.

Answer
Hi Maria,

There are many different types and sizes of Peperomia so that might explain different treatments.

In general, to treat them safely and effectively you will need to mix a spray solution of 5 parts water, 1 part rubbing alcohol and a squirt of liquid soap. The key is to spray all leaf and stem surfaces until they are dripping wet. This is a messy job, but essential otherwise you will miss direct contact with some of the scale and they will reproduce and come back and haunt you in a few months.

If your Peperomia is small enough, fill your sink with this solution and then invert the plant with your hand holding the plant in its pot and then swirl the leaves and stems all around in the alcohol solution for about 30 seconds. This is a less messy way to get complete coverage of all plant surfaces.

After this treatment, the hard scale shells may remain in place, but the scale inside of it is usually dead. You may want to physically remove theses shells after treatment so you won't mistakenly think they have returned at a later date.

I have written an article on treating indoor plant pests that I will email for free to you (or anyone else) who sends a request to me at [email protected].

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

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Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

Visit my website at  www.HorticulturalHelp.com