Fig Tree Disease

Question

Hi,

After leaving for the summer, i have returned to find my fig tree bearing fruit however it has these red/white/pink dots all over the plant, but majorly on the top part of it. (See attached photos of a leaf and fig pulled from towards the top of the tree) The dots sit on the plant, and can be rubbed off but secrete a red liquid when doing so.

I don’t think this matches any of the descriptions i read on your article about fig tree disease.

Do you have any suggestions as to what it might be? If so, what are its effects? Should we still be eating the fruit? and how do we combat this now and in the future?

Thank you so much for your help in advance,
Regards,
Will

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Answer 1

This is what is called Scale. This insect feeds on the sap of your tree. They can do quite a bit of destruction if left unchecked. There are many methods to getting rid of these.

I recommend neem oil, as long as you don't apply it when it is in direct sun. This link will take you to articles that will give more suggestions to removing these: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/special/organic/

This article will give you more information on Scale: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/insects/control-plant-scale.htm