Tree Scale is a type of sap-sucking insect, which can cause major damage to trees when numbers are high. Tree Scale does not usually kill trees quickly but their presence can weaken the tree and make it more liable to attack from other pests or diseases. In the right conditions, tree-scale populations can build up rapidly leading to large numbers of insects settling on leaves and branches in small areas. Once scales have settled they will gradually secrete a waxy layer around themselves until only their hard outer shell remains visible which is often referred to as 'white wax'.
Tree Scale treatment should always be carried out by a professional tree service who knows how debilitating scales can be for a tree. However, you can also help control tree scale numbers by spraying chemicals. It is also controlled by introducing parasitic insects which prey on a scale, tree scale wash which dissolves Tree Scales protective wax coating and allows predators to get through or cultivate the presence of natural predators such as Ladybugs or Lacewingsid.
Here are some effective ways through which you can control tree scale infestation:
#1 Use Tree Scale Wash
Tree scale is vulnerable to a number of insecticides but it has developed some resistance against certain chemicals in the past. This means that treating your trees with scale wash after spraying will ensure any remaining scales are washed away so they don't have a chance to recover. It may sound simple but it washes the scale very effectively. This method can be used on both deciduous and evergreen trees.
#2 Introduce Parasitic Insects
Tree scale has natural enemies just like other sap-feeding insects, unfortunately, their numbers dwindle over the winter meaning tree scales are free to roam during the colder months. Tree scale parasites should be released in late autumn or early spring before the scale populations increase however they will continue working all year round after that providing controlling treatment even through the summer months!
#3 Try Tree Scale Predators
Like many sap-feeding insects, Tree Scales have a number of natural predators which feed on them including Ladybugs and Lacewings which you can encourage into your yard by planting a scale predator attracting a mix of flowers that will provide pollen and nectar for them to eat. Tree scale predators can often keep the scale numbers under control in mild climates but they may not be able to survive the cold winter months when their populations tend to increase. In this case, you may need to reintroduce them each spring!
#4 Cut Out Tree Scale Infested Branches
In some cases, tree scales migrate from leaves onto branches infesting these parts of the tree as well. If the scale is affecting more than one branch it's best to try cutting off all infested branches completely so they don't have a chance to come back again next year. Although this method may be necessary for controlling the infestations.
#5 Use Tree Tree Scale Pheromones
Tree scales have chemical receptors just like other insects but they also release pheromones to attract the scales of the opposite sex during mating season. These pheromone chemicals can be used in traps that catch scales so you don't have to spray your tree with potentially dangerous chemicals on a regular basis!
#6 Destroy Tree Scale Eggs
Tree Scale eggs are protected by a hard casing which makes them difficult to deal with using some methods. However, there are ways of destroying their eggs including injecting diluted insecticides into egg masses or dissolving the eggs with tree scale wash. Once their eggs have been removed from a tree they will no longer pose a threat of scale population for your tree.
#7 Limit Tree Scale Damage
Tree Scale feeds on the sap in trees which causes damage to leaves and eventually entire branches. In some cases, this can be prevented by controlling scales at an early stage or pruning off affected parts of the tree completely but if you do spot little black egg sacks growing on your leaves it's best to catch them as soon as possible before they start infesting these areas. You can either collect them periodically yourself or spray them to reduce scales populations!
#8 Spray Trees with Insecticides
You can try injecting diluted insecticides into egg masses or introducing beneficial insects which feed on the scales however both of these methods are only really useful for small infestations before they've become established.
#9 Use Fungal Sprays
Fungus is one of the most effective ways of controlling sap-feeding insects including tree scales. Luckily there are many fungicidal sprays available for use on trees including neem oil and horticultural oils which both kill scale eggs, adults and larvae.
#10 Prune or Cut off Branches Affected by Tree Scales
Branches infested by scales should be cut completely before new scales are allowed to grow however to prevent scales migrating back onto these branches it's best to treat the main body of the affected plant with oil spray or insecticide which will repel any remaining scales away from your well-pruned branches.
If you have a tree that is infested with scale insects, don't worry. There are many ways to get rid of them and restore your tree to good health. The Tree Doctor can help you choose the right method for your specific situation and provide expert advice on how to keep your trees healthy in the future. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!
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