Scale Insects in Washington Township Landscapes

Scale insects are tiny pests that can cause a lot of damage to landscape trees and shrubs in Washington Township, MI. These insects belong to the superfamily Coccoidea and are notorious for their ability to damage a wide range of landscape trees and ornamental shrubs.

Identifying Scale Insects

Scale insects are divided into two main categories: armored scales and soft scales. Armored scales, such as the Lecanium scale, are protected by a hard, shell-like covering, while soft scales, like the Cottony Maple scale, have a waxy, softer coating. These pests are often mistaken as part of the plant because they remain stationary and appear as small bumps on branches, leaves, or stems.

They are particularly challenging to spot due to their size, which ranges from 1/16 to 1/8 inch. Mature females, the most damaging stage, can blend into the plant’s surface, making early detection crucial.

The Damage Scale Insects Cause

Scale insects feed by sucking sap from the plants, which weakens the plant and can lead to yellowing leaves, stunted growth, and even plant death in severe infestations. Some scale insects excrete a sticky substance called honeydew, which can promote sooty mold, a fungal growth that makes the plant look like it is turning black.

In Washington Township, scale insects are a common concern for residents with landscapes that have maples, oaks, magnolias, and conifers. The cold winters do little to eradicate them, as many species are adept at surviving harsh Michigan winters.

Controlling Scale Insects

Effective scale insect management begins with early identification. Inspect your plants regularly, especially during the growing season. Prune heavily infested branches, if practical, and dispose of them properly to reduce the scale population on the plant.

For large, dispersed infestations, horticultural oil and insecticide sprays can suffocate and kill the scale insects. Whenever possible control treatments should be applied during their vulnerable crawler stage. Insecticidal soaps and systemic insecticides may also be effective depending on the type of scale insect attacking your plant.

Protecting Your Plants From Scale Insects

In Washington Township, MI, maintaining plant health is key to preventing scale insect infestations or helping trees recover from scale insect damage. Ensure proper watering, mulching, and fertilizing to keep your plants as healthy as possible. If you suspect a scale problem, contact Owen Tree and Lawn Care to have our arborist develop a treatment plan tailored to your landscape. By staying vigilant and proactive, you can keep these troublesome landscape pests at bay and ensure your plants thrive year-round.