As we enter this time of year, you may notice unsightly scale infestations on your Crape Myrtles, Hollies, Magnolias, Euonymus, and other plants. These pests suck sap from your plants, weakening them and reducing their ability to bloom. In addition, the sticky residue they leave behind can coat branches, stems, and leaves, providing the perfect environment for airborne molds to grow, causing unsightly blackening on the trunks of your plants.
While your trees or shrubs won’t die from this, the visual impact can be frustrating, especially on stressed plants (those in partial shade, newly planted, or pruned incorrectly). Healthy plants can also fall victim to scale, and unfortunately, the pests hide in the hard-to-reach crevices of the plant, making it challenging to spray directly.
Good news, though! The solution is simple—treat with an insect drench. We recommend using Bonide Systemaxx Insect Drench. Mix it with water according to the instructions on the label and apply it slowly around the base of the trunk. The pesticide will work its way up the trunk and branches over a few weeks, killing off the scale and protecting your plants from further infestations for the rest of the season.
Keep an eye on your plants in the late fall and early spring to see if additional treatment is needed. With a little care, your plants will be back to their beautiful selves in no time!