Scale insect in my baby opuntia

[Faxanadu]

Hi all

My baby Opuntia cactus has a case of scale insects

I’ve been trying to get rid of them using a needle and a soft brush dipped in 70% alcohol – it’s helping a bit, but they keep coming back. I bought some neem oil, but I’m hesitant to use it in case it suffocates the plant, especially since it’s still young and has a few tiny siblings around it.

Would really appreciate any advice – gentle but effective solutions welcome! Don’t want to lose this little one….

 

[Meadowlark]

Welcome @Faxanadu

Yes, neem oil is safe for treating scale on your cactus if used carefully.

Try out a small area first if concerned with a diluted solution like 2 tablespoons of fresh neem per gallon of water. Don't spray if temps are above 90 deg F.

 

[cpp gardener]

If you can get some systemic granules with imidacloprid, they work faster and longer. Or something with dinotefuran.

 

[Faxanadu]

Thanks guys, I will look into the options. Really appreciate your answers and the time.