Coccoidea, as the scale insects are also called, are real pests, especially on oleanders. The animals prefer to attack sclerophyll plants - in addition to oleanders, for example also palm trees and ivy - and not only tend to multiply very quickly, but also attack neighboring plants. In this article you will find out how you can recognize the common oleander pests and eliminate them effectively.
How do you remove scale insects from oleanders?
To effectively eliminate scale insects on oleanders, you can dab with rapeseed or olive oil, wash off honeydew with soapy water, and use neem or oil-based pesticides. Alternatively, you can water the plants with home-made nettle manure or tobacco decoction.
What are scale insects?
Scale insects are by no means the same as scale insects, as there are around 4,000 different species of these small animals. However, they all have one thing in common: they hide and protect themselves with a hard, white or grayish shield. The tiny louse also lays its numerous eggs under this, from which the offspring hatch - and ultimately attack all the surrounding plants. The animals belong to the leaf sap-sucking insects and prefer to sit on the undersides of the leaves and on the young shoots. Like aphids and other plant lice, they excrete sweet honeydew, which serves as a source of nutrition for both ants and sooty mold fungi.
Examine oleander regularly
Since oleander is very susceptible not only to various diseases but also to infestation by sucking pests, you should check your plants regularly. This is important because an infestation that is discovered early is easier to eliminate and the damage is not yet too severe. You can recognize a scale insect infestation by these signs:
- The oleander is covered with a sticky material.
- White dots or a white coating can be seen on the leaves.
- The leaves change color and are eventually shed.
- Deform flowers, leaves and shoots.
Remove scale insects sustainably
Fortunately, scale insects can be eliminated quite successfully using both natural remedies and commercially available pesticides. However, it is extremely important that you always carry out scale insect treatments until the end - on the one hand, so that all animals and their eggs are actually eliminated and on the other hand, otherwise scale insects can build up resistance. These remedies have proven to be effective:
- Rapeseed or olive oil with which the animals are dabbed.
- The honeydew can be washed off with soapy water.
- Neem or oil based pest control products.
- Watering with home-made nettle manure or tobacco broth.
Separate infected plants immediately and treat them over a period of several weeks.
Tip
You can prevent scale insect infestation by providing plenty of fresh air and not necessarily placing the oleanders directly against a house wall. In addition, the plants should be properly cared for and cared for, as infestation mainly occurs in weakened specimens.
