Harmful Insects

Scales

There are many species of scales infesting a variety of plants. Most scales can easily be identified by first identifying the species of the host plant and then the size, color, and shape of the covering. Scales get their name from the waxy covering that adult females secrete and hide under while they feed and lay eggs. Scale insects spend the winter as eggs hidden under the scale attached to twigs. In the spring, the eggs hatch into nymphs or "crawlers" that have legs and may move to other parts of the plant or onto new plants. Scales feed on plant sap, stealing vital plant nutrients.

[View Larger Image]	Oyster Shell Scale	[View Larger Image]

To learn more see the attached information sheet by clicking the PDF icon below.

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