My sagos are covered with a white moldlike covering that appears to be killing the plants. What can we do to control the problem?
Entire communities are infested with cycad scales which are attacking mainly king sagos, but they may affect other related plants. Entire limbs, trunks and fruiting portions are covered with the small white insects that suck juices from the plants. Control is needed; otherwise, the pest will destroy the plants. Use an oil spray available from your garden center to obtain control. If you wish, a homemade oil treatment can be made by combining 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil with 2 tablespoons of mild dish detergent in a gallon of water. Keep homemade mixtures agitated to prevent the ingredients from separating. Apply an oil spray once a week for three weeks. Be sure to wet all portions of the plants. At week four, wash the scale residues from the plants with a strong stream of water. If the scale returns, repeat the treatment. Yellow to brown fronds can be removed. Try to keep as many green leaves as possible on the plant to conti nue food production that supports new growth.
