Despite the fact that dragon trees (Dracaena draco, Dracaena fragrans) are among the most robust houseplants, they are not always spared from pest infestation. Scale insects in particular can cause a lot of trouble for attractive plants.
How do you recognize and treat scale insects on the dragon tree?
Dragon trees can be attacked by scale insects, which appear as raised formations on the undersides of leaves, sticky coating on leaves and yellowish-brown scales. Control is through isolation, mechanical removal and oil-based insecticides. Prevention includes careful care, fertilization and control of new plants.
How do you recognize an infestation of the dragon tree with scale insects?
A clear sign of infestation aresmall, raised structures,which are preferentially foundon the undersides of the long leaves. Since the scale insects pierce the plant with their proboscis, a clearly visible, light spot is created.
The lice that live on the dragon tree excrete a sugary solution that forms a sticky coating on the leaves. It doesn't always have to be near the lice, as the insects sometimes throw the secretion far away.
What do scale insects look like on the dragon tree?
On the underside of the leaves and along the leaf blade of the dragon tree you can seeabout two millimeters large,scale-shaped,blackish, brown, yellowish or reddish dotsdiscover. These are the shield made of resin, wax or substances similar to those of spider threads.
The shell serves as protection for the lice from predators. The females lay their eggs under it and the larvae can develop undisturbed underneath. But it also makes combating scale insects difficult.
What are the consequences of a scale insect infestation on the dragon tree?
Since the dragon tree is deprived of valuable nutrients, theleaves affected by scale insects can turn yellow, wilt or look deformed If the pests are not controlled, this leads to leaf loss, growth problems and, in the worst case even causing the houseplant to die.
How do I fight scale insects on the dragon tree?
Scale insects can be controlled very wellwith commercially available products:
- First separate the infected dragon tree.
- If only individual leaves are colonized, wipe off the firmly attached lice with a damp cloth.
- Spray the plant thoroughly with an insecticide. The products based on orange or rapeseed oil reliably kill insect pests and are environmentally friendly.
- Since the larvae are well protected by the shell, it is recommended to repeat the treatment several times.
Can you prevent scale insects on the dragon tree?
You canprevent scale insect infestations quite well with simple measures. Infestation can often be prevented by taking the following measures:
- Since scale insects are often introduced into the house with new houseplants, you should thoroughly inspect all new acquisitions.
- Pay attention to proper care and fertilization of the Dracaena, as plants that are over-fertilized and sick are very susceptible.
- Warm rooms in the winter months change the composition of the plant sap and scale insects can multiply even faster. Therefore, do not overheat the room in which your dragon tree is located.
Tip
Scale insects spread quickly
If scale insects are found on the dragon tree, other houseplants are often also infected. Orchids, palm trees, ficus, aralia, citrus plants and succulents are particularly popular with pests. For this reason, inspect all green roommates very carefully on a regular basis.