Lightweight horticultural oils, such as Summit’s Year-Round® Spray Oil, control scale by coating and smothering pests rather than relying on harsh chemistry.
BALTIMORE, MD, UNITED STATES, January 20, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ — Asian cycad scale has been devastating to sago “palms” in the Southeast. UF/IFAS reported that within a few years of the pest’s introduction, about 80% of king and queen sagos in South Florida were killed, and almost half in Central Florida. That kind of impact is exactly why homeowners and landscapers keep looking for a dependable control plan.
And yes—nurseries still sell cycads. Demand remains strong because sagos are hardy, attractive landscape staples, and the risk can be managed when plants are monitored and treated early.
What makes Asian cycad scale so hard to beat
Asian cycad scale (Aulacaspis yasumatsui) reproduces fast and can overwhelm a plant quickly—often coating fronds so heavily the plant looks “snow-dusted.” In many cases, the population grows faster than casual treatments can keep up, which is why control tends to be a process, not a one-and-done spray.
Why horticultural oil works
Lightweight ‘superior’ horticultural oils, such as Summit’s Year-Round® Spray Oil, control scale by coating and smothering pests rather than relying on harsh chemistry. The key is thorough coverage and repeat applications because new crawlers can emerge after you spray. UF/IFAS also notes that repeated applications of horticultural oils can help manage this pest.
A practical control plan (what to do)
1) Start with coverage, not shortcuts
Avoid home remedies like bleach mixes—these can damage foliage and still miss the pests tucked into crevices and undersides.
2) Spray on a schedule
For active infestations, repeat treatments every 7–14 days as recommended in Summit’s cycad scale guidance.
3) Spray every surface
Top and underside of fronds, stems, and crown—complete coverage is what makes oil effective.
4) Use smart timing
Apply early or late in the day and follow label directions for temperature and conditions. Summit Year-Round® Spray Oil is described as usable across a wide temperature range (40–100°F) on the product information, but timing still matters for plant stress.
Prevention matters more than most people think
Even when your plant looks clean, monthly applications can help reduce future outbreaks—and crawlers can spread on wind and storms. Summit’s guidance notes immature scales can become airborne and move as far as a half-mile.
Product note: Summit® Year-Round® Spray Oil
Summit® Year-Round® Spray Oil is OMRI-Listed® and positioned for use across many landscape and garden plants, including edibles (when used according to label directions). It’s available as a ready-to-mix concentrate and in a hose-end format for convenient application.
Learn more: https://summitchemical.com/products/year-round-horticultural-spray-oil/
Customer Care: (800) 227-8664
Media Contact
Bill Stengel—Summit® Responsible Solutions
+1 410-522-0661 | bstengel@summitchemical.com
For product updates, availability, and label directions, visit www.summitchemical.com or contact Summit Responsible Solutions at (800) 227-8664.
Media Contact
Bill Stengel
Summit Responsible Solutions
+1 410-522-0661
bstengel@summitchemical.com
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About Summit Responsible Solutions
Summit Responsible Solutions develops environmentally responsible pest control and garden solutions for homes, lawns, gardens, and professional use—helping customers manage pests effectively while supporting modern stewardship goals.
William Stengel
Summit Responsible Solutions
+1 410-522-0661
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