Soft Scale

Soft Scale, "Parthenolecanium corni" , is a well spread insect who attacks the leaves and branches of a plant. The most common host is the Plum. 

When we have a major attack most leaves and branches can dry out, this can stress the tree and even kill it. The insects suck the intracellular fluid and their droppings (called also honeydew) generate mold which aggravates the problem.

The soft scale can be confused with plant buds for the usual gardener.

Ussually, in a balance environment (in natur) they do not represent a major issue, being held under control by other praying insects. In photos you can see an atack on Yew tree, "Taxus Baccata".

Bio Treatments:

We uses with success a mixture of 1 small spoon of dish detergent (with natura ingredients) in 500 ml of water. This will dissolve the fat protecting surface of the scales. Without it they dehydrate and die.

This mixture is also efficient against aphids. 

Chemical Treatments:

When the attack is massive and spread over a big surface we can use the following insecticides Mospilan, Confidor, Actara and others.