Females may produce up to 200 eggs in a lifetime. Eggs hatch in 5 to 7 days and most of the crawlers settle to feed within 24 hours after hatching. The first stage lasts about 10 days, the second about 8 to 10 days for females and 15 for males. After mating, females retain their eggs for a short period, then oviposit. Because females produce eggs over a long period, generations overlap, and usually all stages can be found at any one time.
Crawlers can settle anywhere on the leaf, but seem to prefer the midrib and major veins.
When scales are encountered, horticultural oils give adequate control without excessive phytotoxicity. Two thorough treatments 2 weeks apart should give good control. Boisduval scale crawlers often establish themselves near the base of the plant and in leaf sheaths making control difficult. Also, both upper and lower leaf surfaces are attacked, so thorough coverage of any treatment is essential. For specific control recommendations, see the current Cooperative Extension publications on ornamental plant pest management or consult your county Extension agent.