Dave, thanks for the excellent link. It confirmed what I already knew about scale...but with reference to irises. The infested area only has about 40 plants. I don't want to use insecticide, both to protect the beneficial insects and to protect the birds that eat the insects. I'm going to remove the infested leaves and try wiping with alcohol. I know controlling ants is important too so I'll have to research what is the best way to reduce the ant population. When I get out there in a little while I'll take pictures and dig up a few to make sure the roots aren't infested. I really don't want to destroy that many plants!!!!
