Ficus scale problem

[chipper5]

Hi everyone,

Just looking for some advice- my Ficus ROR is looking a bit unwell and I've noticed the aerial roots are covered in scale. I have a white oil spray ('Eco-oil' brand) I was considering, however I don't know if its ok to use on the roots? (I've only ever treated scale with white oil on leaves/bark)

Just wondering if anyone knows if it will be ok to spray the roots as it will need around 3 applications to get rid of the scale.

TIA

[Pup]

I have used Confidor pellets to good effect on scale on a large Ficus. I would imagine the spray would work as well as it is a systemic, which is taken up into the system though the foliage and roots.

Cheers Pup

[chipper5]

Thanks Pup,

I haven't got any confidor tablets but I can see how they'd be a good option. I have the spray here so I'll give it a go first- I was just concerned as the roots take up more than the leaves & I don't want to kill my fig- has a lot of sentimental value

Thanks again

[Jason]

Thanks Pup,

I haven't got any confidor tablets but I can see how they'd be a good option. I have the spray here so I'll give it a go first- I was just concerned as the roots take up more than the leaves & I don't want to kill my fig- has a lot of sentimental value

Thanks again

I've used the spray before and it worked no problems Just make sure to follow the instructions on the back (or on the website below)

http://www.yates.com.au/products/pest-c ... dy-to-use/

[k2bonsai]

It also looks to me like your tree is a little deficient in nitrogen or other minerals/nutrients. which came first the scale or the pale leaves? Often attack by pests is a sign of a plant/tree not at its best but without knowing the history of this tree and the culture of the tree i would just be speculating.

[chipper5]

Thanks for all the help guys, I really appreciate it. It probably is a bit nutrient deficient as I've had little time to work on my trees this year & my fertilising had been a bit sporadic. Sundays the day & I'll give it the TLC it needs I'll post the results for future reference.