Two kinds of waxy scale - Fig white scale and white waxy scale.

These insects secure their mouthparts to a plants stem or leaf mid rib and excrete a waxy exudate which covers and protects them.


White waxy scale

Fig wax scale

Control of scale insects.

The waxy scales can be more difficult to control once they are mature as they are so well protected by their shelter.

It is often best to prune off the worst parts and use a white oil/eco oil to suffocate any of the tiny crawlers that may be around on the other parts of the plant. Being waxy it may take a couple of goes at being sprayed with the oil.