Hi all, I just wanted to update you on this issue - I cleaned off all the insect residue - it was covered in the stuff! I filled up the pot (from the bottom) with some citrus soil, bought some citrus plant fertiliser, moved it into a (slightly) shadier spot, and am making sure the soil doesn't get bone dry. It's only been a month so still early days but I'm already really happy with the way it has improved - instant impact really!! There's lots of new deep green coloured leaves and new flowering buds too (photo below). It looks healthy again, so just wanted to thank everyone for their comments!
I'm also checking it regularly for any new insect residue and I knock it off with my fingernail when I see it. There is probably new evidence of this every couple of days - will this simply keep on coming back, or is there a pesticide/insecticide I could use?
Great news - thanks for the update. I find scale insects can be a problem when a plant gets stressed and weak for whatever reason. You'll probably find that once your plant has recovered it wont be bothered with them. For the time being just keep an eye out for them, and keep on scratching! It may be worth looking at neem oil if you want something to spray on it. I've never used it but heard some good reports. But best to avoid spraying with anything if poss. Looking good so far - fingers crossed it'll be ok over winter
Billericay - Essex
Knowledge is knowing that a tomato is a fruit. Wisdom is not putting it in a fruit salad.
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I'm also checking it regularly for any new insect residue and I knock it off with my fingernail when I see it. There is probably new evidence of this every couple of days - will this simply keep on coming back, or is there a pesticide/insecticide I could use?
I find scale insects can be a problem when a plant gets stressed and weak for whatever reason.
You'll probably find that once your plant has recovered it wont be bothered with them. For the time being just keep an eye out for them, and keep on scratching!
It may be worth looking at neem oil if you want something to spray on it. I've never used it but heard some good reports. But best to avoid spraying with anything if poss.
Looking good so far - fingers crossed it'll be ok over winter
Billericay - Essex
Knowledge is knowing that a tomato is a fruit.
Wisdom is not putting it in a fruit salad.