Question
I was the one who ask you about my birds of paradise. I had those plants for four years now and have not seen it flower. I have always saw those brown spots on them and then the leaves became sticky and dripped wherever it lands. I sprayed them with soapy water and alcohol water for a couple of days already and it still there; how can I get rid of them permanently? And would it harm my other plants when those brown spots and the substance got onto them? Those it harm my skins?

Answer
Hi Jennifer,

In my previous reply I explained to you that you have a scale insect infestation and offered several different alternatives for treating them. It is very important that your treatment is very thorough, covering all leaf and stem surfaces until they are dripping wet. Use a soft cloth to wipe away the dead scale carcasses.

If the soap and alcohol fail to penetrate the crevices where the leaves emerge from the main stem, then you may want to try Brand X.

The treatments I outlined are as effective as any, but there is no guarantee of permanent eeradication as new ones can always come in the future. Plant pests are just part of caring for plants.

Scale can infest other plants, but it is not likely once you start treating your BoP.

Unless you have an unusual allergy, the scale insects are not likely to irritate your skin. However, you may want to wear rubber gloves when you are spraying and wiping the leaves.

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

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