Hello, everyone, I currently live in Africa. One of the plants in my garden developed some growth along the branches. They are hard, very numerous and look like seashells. Plant also has a lot of ants. Can this be something to do with them? Branches with these shells seem to be dying. I would really appreciate your help. Thanks a lot in advance!
I'm guessing it is a type of scale and that the ants are farming them in order to harvest their excrement, honeydew. Is there evidence of a sticky substance on and around the plant?
Yes, when squeezed, this growth releases some thick orange substance. Thanks for help! What is best to do? Is there any chance to keep the branches, affected by the growth? They do not seem healthy at all...
I believe horticultural oil is the general means of control but I'm not an expert. Documents such as this one, Pests in Gardens and Landscapes: Scales, found on .edu sites will provide you with answers.
