Scale on Roses

Rose Scales Meta Description:  Rose scales, if left untreated, can put a life threat to your rose plant. Read out this article to learn what are rose scales, how to identify them, and how to get rid of them? If you suddenly see your plant stem covered in reddish-brown waxy scales, know that it is suffering from a rose scale infestation and needs immediate care. This tiny, sap-sucking insect weakens the overall plant by reducing the sap flow through it. Moreover, the immature nymph can travel to nearby plants as well, increasing the risk of widespread attack. That’s not all! If left unobserved, rose scales do not take long in killing off your plant. Read on to find out some characteristic traits of the scales insect, along with a few tips on how to get rid of them. Rose Scales Identification: Scales are extremely small insects, not more than half a cm in length, that are usually found on the base of stems. In severe cases, the infestation may reach the leaves and neighboring plants through the immature mobile nymph. They usually appear in Springs, which is when their eggs hatch. Damage Symptoms: As evident by the name, they form a layer of scales on the rose stem that readily ingests the plant sap. The reduction in the sap flow results in the weakening of the plant, accompanied by disfigured plant structures and dead stems. Rose scales start by affecting the leaves, turning them brown, and drying them. Next, some parts of the stems die, followed by the death of the entire plant if proper preventive measures are not taken. Rose Scales Treatment: Rub some agricultural oil on the infected stems thrice a week. This blocks the air supply to the scales leading to its death. Next, scrape the insects on the stem with an old toothbrush to remove their bodies. Release ladybugs on your plant to reduce the insect population and scrape off the remaining ones using a brush. Cut off severely infected parts of the stem. Make sure you dispose off them properly since slight negligence may result in an attack on nearby plants. Spray your plants with a high-pressure garden hose to destroy the remaining insects on the plant. Rose Scales Prevention: Since the primary cause of scales infestation is environmental stress, therefore, managing the growing conditions is an effective means of treatment for this problem. Thoroughly water your plants during the summer at least thrice a week to minimize chances of pest attacks such as scales and red spiders. Check if the soil has adequate nutrients along with proper drainage. Well-drained soil is the first step to a healthy, blooming garden. Prune your plants frequently to remove any dead leaves or stems that may be putting a strain on the nutrient supply. Check if your roses are planted at a distance from each other. Closely placed plants, even those of the same species, may compete with each other for survival. Conclusion: Not all rose-scale infestations are lethal to the plant. Observe your plants daily to detect any unusual growth or activities and take timely measures to control them. Early detection greatly helps in minimizing the effects of diseases, providing a better chance of survival for your plants.