Question
Hello Mr. Creed

I have a common myrtle (Myrtus communis I believe) that unfortunately has scale. I've been searching for a homemade recipe online, and found one that suggested spraying it with a combination of water, liquid dish soap, and oil. I did this, and it did help with the scale, but some of the leaves have turned black as a consequence. I don't want to spray with the same solution again, do you have any other homemade recipe ideas for when the scale population returns?

Also do you know if a Tiger Lily can be pollinated with an Easter Lily or vise versa. My guess is no, but just thought I'd check

Thanks for your help.

Julie


Answer
Hi Julie,

Is your Myrtle indoors or outdoors? If it is outdoors, it may have a different type of scale than indoors. If it is indoors, try substituting rubbing alcohol for the oil. Spray it on a small section of the plant and wait a week to be sure that it does not damage the plant.

Your lilies are outdoor species and are outside my area of expertise.

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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