I would apreciate some assistance. I have a six foot pencil cactus. A week ago I noticed that the plant has scale infestation. I'm unsure of how to help the plant. I removed the parts that were affected and have sprayed the plant with isopropryl alcohol daily since I observed the scale. However I'm not sure if I'm on the right track. I would appreciate any advice in helping to save the plant. Regards.
the rubbing alcohol is okay to use. you're better off using q-tips and rubbing it onto the scale directly. actually, you need to get the r-a UNDER the scale. that hard coat is just a protective thing - the bug itself is secured underneath it. so, to effectively get rid of the bugs, you need to get the r-a to drip under the covering to get at the bug. you could use something to knock the bugs off - or at least that covering - and then treat with the r-a once the actual bug is exposed. yes, that would be time consuming, would be the best though as that covering REALLY protects them! you'll have to treat repeatedly to make sure you get all the eggs that might be there, too.
