What is Tree Scale?
Insect scale, or tree scale, refers to a fast multiplying, sucking insect that comes in many varieties. They don’t even look like insects like you might think. For one, they don’t move. Nor do they have visible legs.
They attach themselves to the leaves and needles of trees, plants, and shrubs, sucking out the sap with devastating impact. Left untreated, trees can become so severely depleted that death is inevitable.
Tree Scale Symptoms
The scale insect will feed on the sap of the host tree, causing the leaves or needles to turn a yellowish brown. Another symptom would be the obvious presence of this easily identifiable insect. We often see both the hard shell and cottony softy varieties.
Sometimes we get calls from people saying their tree is leaking sap on their car. Sap can leak from trees for many reasons, and a variety of wood-boring insects can cause sap to drip.
However, in the case of tree scale, the insect will secrete a sticky substance known as “honeydew,” which is the sticky “tree sap” that gets on your car.
We run into scale a lot in Westchester. We see it on pine, spruce, hemlock, douglas fir, cedar, and a host of other plants, including fern, boxwood, holly, honeysuckle, and pachysandra.
Tree Scale Treatment
Dormant horticultural oil spray is the best treatment for Scale. It’s natural, and it doesn’t hurt the tree but will suffocate the insect. It can be applied during the tree’s dormant season to kill off insects such as scale, aphids, and mites.
Horticultural oils can also be applied during the growing season in lighter concentrations. Although, many factors need to be considered, including temperature, humidity, and known plant sensitivities. For this reason, it’s in your best interest to consult with a professional.
Horticultural oils are also generally considered safe for humans and pets, which is why they are often used on fruit-baring trees.
When you sign on for our tree and plant health care program, we’ll address insect issues before they become problems.
Need Tree Scale Treatment?
It hurts when you see your tree in full vigor quickly decline and die. It doesn’t have to be that way. We can help save your trees and plants.
One of our experts can visit you and quickly diagnose your plant and tree problems before the damage is irreversible.
Serving: Westchester County, NY • Putnam County, NY • Fairfield County, CT
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