TREE & LAWN CARE BLOG

Tree Care Amanda Geary Tree Care Amanda Geary

Crepe Myrtle Bark Scale

A new scale pest that lingers on crepe myrtle trees has been found in the southeastern US threatening their appearance and life span. This pest is spreading fast, leaving behind extensive honeydew deposits and black sooty mold.

Symptoms of crape myrtle bark scale:

  • Black sooty mold

  • Reduced foliage growth

  • Honeydew secretions

  • White/gray felt-like substances on trunk or branches

How do I get rid of crape myrtle bark scale?

Before treating your crape myrtle diseases, its important to have an examination by a certified arborist to confirm what exactly (if anything) is needed. Our technicians will apply a pesticide in the spring right as the new growth develops on the tree to attain the best results.

Can I prevent crape myrtle bark scale?

Unfortunately there is currently no preventative measure to avoid this particular scale. However, keeping your trees regularly maintained and in good health can naturally deter them. Pests and diseases are most likely to invade a sick/unhealthy tree.

Click the link below to be connected with an ISA certified arborist now!

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Tree Care, Tree Pruning, Tree Removal Amanda Geary Tree Care, Tree Pruning, Tree Removal Amanda Geary

Do I Have A White Pine Weevil Infestation?

The eastern white pine tree is characterized by its blue-green needles. It grows best in zones 3-8 and is a valuable hardy tree. Easy to grow and maintain, the eastern white pine is known for its adaptability to grow in many different conditions. However, it is susceptible to the white pine weevil.

What is the white pine weevil?

The white pine weevil is considered one of the most destructive tree pests in the U.S. It primarily feeds on the white pine but has been known to favor a few other species such as the spruce and fir. This insect is extremely small in size, averaging at 7mm in its adult cycle. They tend to gather in the leaf debris at the base of your trees in winter, to emerge in spring and attack its hosts. The damage from a white pine weevil is extensive and can escalate extremely fast. If you suspect white pine weevils on your trees, it’s important to get a tree care estimate by a certified arborist immediately.

What are the signs of white pine weevil?

  • Presence of adult weevils on bark

  • Pin sized holes

  • Spongy or softened areas under the bark

  • Wilting or drooping

How do I get rid of the white pine weevil?

Unfortunately we cannot recommend any at home treatment for this pest, as it is so destructive and must be maintained properly. An application of insecticide should be applied by a tree care specialist between March and April when drops of resin are first detected. Depending on the extent of the damage, the remaining infected portions of branches should be removed and burned to prevent further outbreak.

We recommend a regular tree health inspection by an ISA certified arborist to prevent pests and decay from taking over. Click the link below to set up a free estimate with one of our arborists and start your tree pest prevention plan today!

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