Scale on plants refers to an infestation of small insects that suck sap and belong to the superfamily Coccoidea. They attach themselves to twigs, leaves, branches, and fruits of host plants and can cause poor growth, reduced vigor, and chlorotic (yellowed) leaves. Scale insects feed on plant sap through long, needle-like mouthparts, and some species also secrete a sticky substance called honeydew, which supports the growth of a fungal disease (sooty mold) and also attracts ants. Scale insects can be difficult to spot because they are small and variable looking, and their unusual appearance can be easily mistaken for scabs, diseases, or other problems. Here are some telltale signs to look out for:

• Clusters: Scale insects occur in immobile clusters. If you see groupings of tiny shell-like bumps on leaves, stems, or bark, they are most likely scale.
• Larvae: Scale insects may produce hundreds of eggs beneath their shells, which later hatch into tiny translucent crawlers about 1/100-inch long. These unprotected crawlers migrate to new feeding sites where they become attached to the plant and develop their own protective shells.
• Honeydew: The main sign of soft scale infestation is honeydew on foliage or on surfaces under the plant.

To get rid of scale on plants, it is important to properly diagnose the presence of scale before administering any treatments. Here are some steps to follow:

• Identify the type of scale: There are two main groups of scale insects: armored or hard scales, and unarmored or soft scales. The names refer to the shell-like coverings which protect the insect body.
• Separate the affected plant: Move the affected plant away from other plants to prevent the infestation from spreading.
• Use natural remedies or insecticides: There are several natural remedies that can be used to control scale insects, such as neem oil, rubbing alcohol, or insecticidal soap. Insecticides labeled for use indoors can also be used, but it is important to follow the instructions carefully.
• Repeat the treatment: Repeat the treatment every 7-10 days until you no longer see the scale bugs appearing.

Prevention is also key to avoiding scale infestations. Carefully inspect plants before bringing them indoors, and regularly inspect all plants thoroughly for signs of scale.