Scale Control

Scale Destroying Beetles

Rhyzobius lopanthe

Shipped as adults, the life cycle is 35 to 60 days and activity occurs at temperatures as low as 40 F. A rate of about five beetles per square yard or three to five beetles per plant or 20 to 40 beetles per scale-infested tree are variously suggested. (Photographs courtesy Clemson University - USDA Cooperative Extension Slide Series and USDA Forest Service Archives, USDA Forest Service www.insectimages.org) Photographs show destruction of scale infested plants.

Scale - Natural Controls

Remove scales gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush dipped in a solution of rubbing alcohol, soapy water or a combination of both.

Most predators prey only on specific types of scales, so proper identification is important. The scale destroying beetle preys on several species of soft and armored scales and great for a few plants in a garden. Large garden or crops can use several small wasp species.

Horticultural oils are very effective at controlling scale. For more information on oils, please go to Natural Botanicals.