beginner discussion of scale

[Ray]

There are several types of scale insects, ranging from those with hard shells to other soft scales the the soft SOB, Boisduval scale.

As Roberta mentioned, there’s also mealy bugs, which can be more common.

Alcohol and soapy sprays are of little use, especially if the critters have established a decent population. Scales are protected by their shells and mealies populate roots in addition to the foliage. Such sprays only affect what they come into direct contact with, so hatching and maturing juveniles are free to roam and repopulate.