Leaving one aphid alive can result in the production of a new colony very quickly. In addition, the use of insecticides kills the beneficial insects that normally keep aphid populations under control. As with all pesticides, read and follow all label directions and precautions. Scales are unusual insects in appearance. They are small and immobile, with no visible legs.
Scales vary in appearance depending on age, sex and species.
Some are flat and appear like scales stuck to a plant, while others appear like white cottony masses. They feed on sap by piercing the leaf, stem or branch with their mouthparts and sucking. Their feeding can weaken or kill branches. Heavily infested trees are stunted with small flowers and leaves. Leaves may yellow and drop early.