Back to Plant Clinic
⚠ Moderate
ðŸĐš
Pests

Scale Insects on Succulents

Commonly affects: Various succulents (Crassulaceae, Aizoaceae, and others)

Small, immobile brown or tan bumps attach to leaves and stems, secreting honeydew and weakening the plant over time.

Potential Causes

  1. 1Scale insects establishing on the plant surface
  2. 2Introduction from a nearby infested plant
  3. 3Stressed plants being more susceptible

Solution Steps

  1. 1Scrape off visible scale by hand or with a soft brush for light infestations
  2. 2Apply horticultural oil or insecticidal soap, ensuring thorough coverage
  3. 3Isolate the affected plant until cleared
  4. 4Repeat treatment over several weeks for full control

Prevention Tip

Inspect new succulents carefully before adding them to your collection, since scale often arrives on new plants unnoticed.