Sussex Tree

Best Ways to Identify Crape Myrtle Bark Scale

Our team at Sussex Tree is committed to helping homeowners identify and treat crape myrtle bark scale. Crape myrtle bark scale (CMBS) is an insect that feeds primarily on Crape Myrtle and Beautyberry trees and shrubs. Identifying the infestation early on is essential to prevent any harm to the tree. Crape myrtles are known for their long season of bloom, and scale will affect the appearance of the flowers once it infests a tree. Visit our website to reach out for more information or to connect with someone on Sussex Tree’s team to assist with identifying Crape Myrtle Bark Scale.

Signs to Look for When Identifying Crape Myrtle Bark Scale

One of the signs to look for when identifying crape myrtle bark scale is white dots or cotton-like bumps forming along the tree and branches. When determining if your plant is suffering from scale, the most common places to find an infestation are the branches and tree trunks of the plant. Once the infestation has taken over a significant area of the tree, it will turn the bark of the branches black.

How does Crape Myrtle Bark Scale Harm the tree?

Crape Myrtles can suffer two types of damage from CMBS: direct and indirect. Direct damage happens when the insects feed on the tree sap and cause the branches to die. The indirect damage is due to honeydew secretion from the scale insect, which makes the tree susceptible to black sooty-mold growth. The sugars and yeast in the sap can further attract mold to areas of the tree. CMBS weakens the tree resulting in a hindered production of flowers.

Is Crape Myrtle Bark Scale Treatable?

Crape Myrtle Bark Scale is treatable, but it is crucial to identify and treat it early. The insects have a waxy body that makes them resistant to pesticides and insecticides. It is best to identify scale as soon as it appears and practice preventative care to treat the tree before significant damage occurs. If you think your trees have scale, call Sussex Tree today for a free assessment and treatment options.

Sussex Tree offers Plant Health Care to help identify and treat issues with your trees, like crape myrtle bark scale. Let our specialized team of trained tree professionals and certified arborists help you identify and treat problems with your trees, like crape myrtle bark scale. Customers can also visit our website and use our plant diagnostic tool to identify plant issues.