Scale insects are some of the most common and troublesome pests for gardeners and plant lovers. These tiny invaders latch onto your plants, piercing stems and leaves to suck out vital sap. This weakens your plants, sometimes severely, depending on how many scale insects are present and the plant’s resilience.
But the damage doesn’t stop there. Scale insects secrete a sticky substance called honeydew, which attracts black sooty mold. This mold coats leaves, preventing photosynthesis and causing leaves to dry up and fall prematurely.
If you’ve spotted these pests on your plants, don’t worry — you don’t have to reach for harsh chemicals. Instead, try these five natural pesticides that are effective, safe, and eco-friendly.
1. Tobacco Solution
Tobacco is a powerful natural insecticide long used to combat pests like scale insects.
How to prepare:
Soak the contents of 6 cigarettes in 1 liter of water.
Let the mixture rest for 24 hours.
Strain well to remove solids.
How to use:
Spray this solution on the affected plants, or apply it directly using a cotton ball soaked in the solution, especially on leaves and stems where scale insects gather.
2. Baking Soda Spray
Baking soda not only fights fungi but also helps control scale insects when combined with soap.
Ingredients:
1 tablespoon baking soda
1 liter water
2 tablespoons grated Marseille soap (or mild liquid soap)
Directions:
