I'm still trying to figure out the "hybrid" part. Is it a hybrid ficus or do you think the scale is some kind of hybrid? Inquiring minds want to know!

Anyway.... Probably the easiest and safest method for removing scale (if you're sure that's what you have) is to take a cotton ball or swab dipped in alcohol and just gently clean it off. This not only kills the scale, it physically removes it, which spraying won't do. Just don't do it during the hot part of the day when the sun is shining on it or the alcohol can burn the plant. If you do it when it's cool there should be no problem.

Moving it outdoors doesn't "cause" it, but if it's next to another plant that has scale they can travel. They can also get inside the house, so that's no guarantee of safety.

Your description, though, makes it sound like maybe that's not the whole picture. I don't know what kind of ficus it is, but F. benjamina are notorious for dropping all their leaves whenever you change locations or growing conditions. Greyish leaves could also indicate spider mites or thrips. And how long since you fertilized it? A picture would make a diagnosis much easier.

When I purchased the ficus at the end of last summer from HD it was labeled Hybrid Ficus.? Marketing tool I imagine, but it worked for me! Not sure exactly what kind of ficus.I will try to post a pic. later. I did notice my majesty palms have the same type of scale on the fronds. I do use a mist fan in the mid day for about two hours, although not to saturate any plants, but to keep the temp down and bring the humidity up. I wonder if it could be stains from the overspray during windy conditions. My wife said it has stained our full glass storm door? (we drink this stuff)We had 105' temps w/ 7% hum. Maybe it's not worth the trouble, not sure. I have fertilized recently and have spayed with a pesticide.(want the organic thing too)The new growth has not been near the mist and has great color. I think now it may be water stain, but will treat for spider mites as a precaution. Thank You for your input!

It sounds like what you're talking about is some kind of residue, rather than scale. Scale are little sucking insects that come in a bunch of shapes, colors and sizes, but they wouldn't be on your glass door. Could be just salts from the water, or whatever pesticide you've been using.

I would recommend against treating it for spider mites or anything else unless you're sure that's what you have. Unnecessary use of chemicals can cause a lot of problems, both for your plant and for you!

Here is a link that might be useful: Scale (google images)

Thank you for posting the url. I have often heard of spider mites, but never knew for sure what they were! This is not that.I think it's the water stain, and yes I understand the pesticide issue. I discovered deer ticks, and have a severe problem with ants, in all my pots and yard and also found some bag worms in some larger trees, so,I done what I thought was necessary and to get ahead of grubs that were an issue last year. Felt like it was my best option.Hate to use it! But I do thank you for your help.