Maryland’s trees face constant threats from pests that can weaken or kill them. Here’s what you need to know to protect your trees:

• Emerald Ash Borer (EAB): Targets ash trees, leaving D-shaped exit holes and S-shaped galleries. Without treatment, infested trees die within 2–6 years. Use insecticide treatments like trunk injections to protect healthy trees.
• Bark Beetles: Attack both conifers and deciduous trees, leaving resin oozing from boreholes and sawdust at the base. Regular watering and pruning can help prevent infestations.
• Crapemyrtle Bark Scale (CMBS): Affects crapemyrtles, causing black sooty mold and stunted growth. Systemic insecticides and proper care can manage infestations.
• Japanese Beetles: Skeletonize leaves of linden, birch, maple, and more. Hand removal and community-wide management help control outbreaks.
• Cicadas: Egg-laying damages young trees, causing branch dieback. Use netting to protect vulnerable trees.
• Spotted Lanternfly: Feeds on sap from over 70 tree species, leading to sooty mold and reduced tree health. Remove pests and avoid transporting infested materials.

Quick Tip: Early detection is key. Regularly inspect trees for signs like exit holes, sawdust, or mold. Professional help may be needed for advanced infestations.

Regular tree care, inspections, and prompt action can save your trees from these pests. For severe infestations, consult a professional arborist.

Maryland Forest Health Report: Pests and Diseases- Heather Harmon Disque- Episode 1

1. Emerald Ash Borer

The emerald ash borer (EAB) is a small but devastating pest that has caused massive destruction to ash trees across North America, including Maryland. This shiny, metallic green beetle has been responsible for the death of millions of ash trees ^[5][7]. Once it invades, even healthy trees can succumb quickly.

Tree Species Affected

EAB targets ash trees exclusively, and unfortunately, North American ash species lack any natural defenses against this pest. Over 99% of infested ash trees ultimately die ^[6].

Signs of Infestation

Identifying an EAB infestation requires spotting at least two distinct signs or symptoms, as experts recommend ^[3]. The University of Maryland Extension provides a clear distinction between the two:

"Symptoms are the characteristics expressed by an infested tree, such as crown die-back and epicormic sprouting (growth that emerges from dormant buds along the trunk and branches). Signs are the physical evidence of the pest or disease, including larval galleries, exit holes and all life stages of the insect." ^[3]

Key signs to watch for include 1/8-inch D-shaped exit holes left by emerging beetles ^[3][4]. Beneath the bark, you might find winding, S-shaped galleries packed with frass – a mix of sawdust and insect waste – that can cause the bark to split as the tree tries to heal. Other symptoms include thinning canopies, epicormic sprouting, and woodpecker activity, as birds hunt for the larvae. These indicators often appear within one to three years of infestation ^[4].

Impact on Tree Health

EAB larvae feed on the inner bark and phloem, disrupting the tree’s ability to transport water and nutrients. This damage typically kills the tree in two to six years ^[4][5][6][7]. The consequences go beyond the loss of individual trees. A 2011 study estimated that removing and replacing ash trees in just four Midwestern states could cost between $13.4 and $26 billion. Additionally, a 2013 study linked the widespread loss of ash trees in 15 states to over 20,000 additional deaths from respiratory and cardiovascular diseases ^[6]. These statistics highlight the far-reaching effects of EAB infestations.

Management Strategies

For healthy ash trees, insecticide treatments can provide protection. Soil-applied imidacloprid and trunk-injected emamectin benzoate are two effective options, with trunk injections offering the best results for larger trees, though they are also the most expensive ^{[8][9][10][11][12]}.

Preventing the spread of EAB is equally important. One simple but critical step is to avoid transporting firewood, as infested wood can introduce the pest to new areas ^[8][10]. For trees that are already heavily infested or dead, removal is often necessary. Delaying removal can increase costs and pose safety risks ^[9]. To reduce future vulnerabilities, many experts recommend replacing ash trees with a diverse mix of species, which helps create a more resilient landscape against potential pest outbreaks ^[11].

2. Bark Beetles

After the challenges brought by the emerald ash borer, Maryland’s trees face another formidable foe: bark beetles. These tiny insects, measuring less than 0.33 inches (8 mm) long, have a devastating impact on forests, earning them the ominous nickname "The Tree Killer" from the National Park Service. Their ability to quickly adapt to environmental changes, as noted by Diana Six from the University of Montana, makes them a persistent threat ^[13][17].

Tree Species Affected

Bark beetles attack a wide range of trees, including both coniferous and deciduous varieties. On Maryland’s eastern shore, the Southern pine beetle (Dendroctonus frontalis) primarily targets loblolly pine, while Ips beetles (also known as engraver beetles) are more prevalent in central Maryland and the western shore, focusing on white pine. In western Maryland, the Black turpentine beetle (Dendroctonus terebrans) is the most common culprit ^[1].

Their reach extends beyond conifers. Elm bark beetles, for instance, infest dead or dying elm wood and can spread Dutch elm disease. Shothole borers are drawn to fruit trees, wild cherry, serviceberry, and elm, while peach bark beetles focus on stone fruits, mountain ash, mulberry, and elm. Birch bark beetles, on the other hand, prefer beech, wild cherry, and red gum ^[13].

Signs of Infestation

Catching an infestation early is key to saving affected trees. The first signs include resin oozing from bore holes, often accompanied by fine sawdust at the base of the tree ^[13]. These resin patches, known as pitch tubes, start as cream-colored spots on the lower trunk, eventually turning red and crumbling as the infestation worsens ^[14]. In pine trees, yellowing needles that gradually shift from bright green to light green, then to yellow, and finally reddish-brown, often signal a problem ^[1]. Severe infestations may also attract ambrosia beetles, which leave behind fine white sawdust at the tree’s base ^[1].

Impact on Tree Health

Bark beetles inflict severe damage by tunneling through a tree’s bark and creating intricate galleries in the phloem, the vital layer that transports water and nutrients ^[16]. This disruption can starve the tree, leading to its eventual death ^[15]. Trees weakened by drought are especially vulnerable, as their defenses falter and the chemicals they release attract beetles ^[16].

The scale of destruction is staggering. Since 2000, bark beetles have decimated 85,000 square miles of forest in the western United States. In 2021 alone, they were responsible for over half of all tree deaths in Washington’s forests ^[16][17]. Beyond individual tree loss, these infestations can reshape landscapes, worsen air quality, and heighten wildfire risks due to the accumulation of dead trees ^[16]. Jesse Morris, a geographer at the University of Utah, highlighted the severity of the issue:

"The amount of conifer mortality that we’re seeing both here and in Europe is unprecedented historically" ^[17].

Management Strategies

The best way to combat bark beetles is by keeping trees healthy. Regular watering, mulching, and pruning can strengthen a tree’s natural defenses ^[16]. If an infestation occurs, removing dead or dying trees and limbs promptly can help limit breeding grounds ^[13][1][18]. In areas known for beetle activity, preventive insecticide treatments may be considered for high-value trees as part of a broader management approach ^[16].

Consistent monitoring is essential, especially during drought periods when trees are under stress. Property owners should regularly inspect their trees for early signs of infestation, allowing for swift action and a better chance of controlling the damage.

3. Crapemyrtle Bark Scale

Crapemyrtles in Maryland are now under threat from Crapemyrtle Bark Scale (CMBS), a pest first identified in 2004. Since then, it has spread to 14 states, with early detections already reported in Maryland.

Tree Species Affected

Unlike bark beetles, which can target a variety of trees, CMBS is highly selective, focusing mainly on crapemyrtles. Each female can lay between 60 and 250 eggs, allowing populations to grow quickly. Trees that are stressed are more susceptible, so proper care and placement are key to minimizing infestations.

Signs of Infestation

Here’s how to spot a CMBS infestation on your crapemyrtles:

• Look for white or gray, waxy scales on stems, twigs, and trunks. These scales are often found in branch crotches or near pruning cuts ^[21].
• Heavy black sooty mold on leaves, branches, and trunks is another clue. This mold thrives on the sticky honeydew secreted by the scales.
• Perform a “crush test” to confirm the presence of CMBS. Crushing a suspected female scale will release pinkish fluid if the pest is active ^[20].

As the Mississippi State University Extension Service explains:

"Sooty mold alone is not a definite indication of CMBS, but if you also find white, felt-covered scales that bleed pink when punctured, you can be sure you have found crape myrtle bark scale" ^[19].

Other warning signs include smaller or fewer flower clusters, reduced flowering, and, in severe cases, premature bark peeling ^[21]. These symptoms often signal a decline in the tree’s overall appearance and health.

Impact on Tree Health

CMBS primarily affects the visual appeal of crapemyrtles, leading to fewer and smaller blooms. Infestations can also stunt growth, cause branches to die back, and leave twigs encrusted with scales ^[19]. The honeydew they produce fosters the growth of sooty mold, further diminishing the tree’s aesthetic value. According to Virginia Cooperative Extension:

"Crape myrtles infested with CMBS tend to leaf out later in the spring; have fewer, smaller bloom clusters; and have reduced plant vigor, all of which diminishes the attractiveness of this popular ornamental tree" ^[22].

While healthy trees rarely die quickly from CMBS infestations, the stress caused by these pests can make them more vulnerable to other problems.

Management Strategies

Managing CMBS requires a combination of good cultural practices and targeted chemical treatments. Keeping trees healthy with proper mulching, irrigation, and fertilization (based on soil test results) can help reduce infestations. Planting crapemyrtles in full sun is another way to discourage CMBS [29, 30].

For chemical control, systemic insecticides applied as a soil drench are highly effective. Products containing dinotefuran, imidacloprid, or thiomethoxam, when applied in late winter or early spring, can protect trees for up to a year ^[23].

Dormant oil sprays applied after the leaves fall can help control overwintering scales. For active infestations, bifenthrin mixed with horticultural oil can target the crawler stage in late April or May and again in late summer ^[23]. Additionally, washing sooty mold off trunks with soapy water can improve the tree’s appearance ^[23].

Experts advise treating only trees with active infestations and monitoring all crapemyrtles regularly for early signs of CMBS. When pruning infested branches, dispose of the clippings properly – double-bag them and place them in the trash instead of composting, to prevent the pest from spreading ^[23]. Regular vigilance is crucial to catching and managing new infestations early.

4. Japanese Beetles

Japanese beetles are a major pest in Maryland, wreaking havoc on more than 275 species of plants. These shiny, metallic green and copper-colored beetles emerge from the soil by mid-June, reaching their peak activity in early July.

Tree Species Affected

Japanese beetles are particularly drawn to Maryland trees like linden, birch, flowering crabapple, maple, ornamental apple, stone fruit, and elm ^[30][31]. They can also target secondary hosts, such as buckeye and chestnut trees ^[32]. Trees that are already stressed or damaged are especially vulnerable – damaged leaves release chemicals that attract even more beetles, worsening the problem ^[26]. Keep an eye on these trees for clear signs of beetle activity.

Signs of Infestation

Spotting a Japanese beetle infestation is fairly straightforward since adult beetles are easy to see on affected plants ^[24]. A telltale sign is the skeletonized appearance of leaves, where beetles eat the tissue between major veins, leaving a lace-like pattern ^[25]. Other indicators include leaves turning brown and dropping prematurely, flowers showing damage, reduced blooming, and lower fruit yields. You might also notice adult beetles flying around as they feed ^[26].

Impact on Tree Health

The damage Japanese beetles cause depends heavily on the tree’s age and overall health. Mature, healthy trees and shrubs can often withstand significant feeding without lasting harm ^[25]. However, younger or already weakened plants are at greater risk, potentially suffering stunted growth, severe injury, or even death from repeated feeding ^[25]. During peak infestations, beetles can completely strip trees of their leaves ^[28], leaving them more vulnerable to diseases and environmental stress ^[27].

Management Strategies

If you notice an infestation, it’s important to act quickly. Start inspecting your trees as beetles begin to emerge in mid-June, and continue monitoring throughout the summer ^[28][29]. Removing beetles by hand and discarding damaged leaves can help reduce the chemical signals that attract more beetles ^[25][26].

For heavy infestations, professional help may be necessary. Pro Landscapes MD offers specialized tree care and pest management services. Additionally, research in 2024 at the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum showed promising results in biological control, with Winsome fly parasitism rates on Japanese beetles ranging from 16% to 30%, and parasitism of female beetles reaching as high as 55% ^[25]. Since Japanese beetles can travel up to 5 miles in search of food, a community-wide approach to management is often more effective than tackling the problem on individual properties ^[29].

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5. Cicadas

Cicadas in Maryland don’t harm trees by feeding on them; instead, their egg-laying activities can weaken or even kill younger trees by compromising their structural integrity.

Tree Species Affected

Cicadas use over 200 tree species as hosts for their eggs ^[36]. They prefer branches between 0.25 and 0.5 inches in diameter for laying eggs ^[38], which makes younger trees and new growth especially vulnerable. A study by Miller and Crowley at the Morton Arboretum, which examined 140 genera of woody plants, revealed that more than half experienced damage from cicada egg-laying ^[40]. Among the most targeted trees are maples (Acer), beeches (Fagus), oaks (Quercus), and redbuds (Cercis) ^[40]. Other frequently affected species include apple, hickory, and members of the birch, dogwood, walnut, willow, linden, and elm families ^[41].

Interestingly, cicadas tend to avoid conifers because their needles make egg-laying difficult, and the sap from these trees can trap or kill the eggs ^[39]. Similarly, trees that produce heavy sap or gum are less likely to attract cicadas ^[41].

Signs of Infestation

One telltale sign of cicada activity is the presence of small, slit-like incisions on branches and twigs where females deposit their eggs ^[33]. These slits, about 1/4 to 1/2 inch wide, resemble razor cuts ^[35]. Inside each incision, you might find 10 to 25 eggs, and a single female can lay over 500 eggs during her lifetime ^[34].

About six weeks after the eggs are laid, they hatch ^[34]. Damaged trees often show symptoms like "flagging", where the ends of branches die, wither, or break off. You may also notice wilting leaves and dieback, particularly on younger trees ^[33].

Impact on Tree Health

Mature trees are generally resilient and recover without long-term damage. However, younger trees face a higher risk due to weakened branches and disrupted nutrient flow, which can lead to stunted growth or even death in severe cases. Mike Raupp, Professor Emeritus of Entomology at the University of Maryland, explains:

"There have been several studies that show no long-lasting effect on mature, well-established trees" ^[37].

In contrast, newly planted or younger trees are more vulnerable. The egg-laying slits weaken branches, increasing the likelihood of breakage and dieback ^[33]. When the cambium layer – the part of the tree responsible for nutrient transport – is heavily damaged, it can lead to serious health issues or even kill the tree ^[33]. During years of massive cicada emergence, when densities can reach up to 1 million per acre, even mature trees may lose significant branches. Thankfully, they usually recover without permanent harm ^[36].

Management Strategies

To protect your trees during cicada emergence, monitor them closely for signs of damage, such as slits in branches or wilting foliage ^[33]. Since cicadas don’t feed on trees, traditional insecticides are largely ineffective in deterring them ^[41]. Instead, physical barriers like netting are a better option for safeguarding young or valuable trees. These methods often outperform chemical treatments.

Given that cicada outbreaks are temporary, many homeowners find that patience is the best strategy. Most healthy trees will recover naturally over time. However, if you notice significant damage to young trees, consider consulting Pro Landscapes MD’s tree care specialists for an assessment and tailored protective measures. Acting early can help preserve tree health and complement broader efforts to manage other tree pests in Maryland.

6. Spotted Lanternfly

First identified in Cecil County in October 2018, the spotted lanternfly poses a serious threat to Maryland’s trees by feeding on sap, which puts considerable stress on plants ^[46].

Tree Species Affected

Spotted lanternflies are known to feed on over 70 types of woody plants ^[49]. While their favorite host is the Tree-of-Heaven ^[46], they also feed on many native Maryland species, including apples, birch, cherry, grape, lilac, maple, poplar, sycamore, stone fruits, and willows ^[49]. Other targets include grapes, peaches, walnuts, and oaks ^[46], making them a concern for both residential areas and agricultural landscapes. These feeding patterns often serve as early indicators of an infestation.

Signs of Infestation

Detecting an infestation isn’t difficult if you know what to look for. One common sign is wet sap oozing from small trunk wounds, often accompanied by a fermented smell ^[42]. Egg masses are another clue. When freshly laid, these masses appear brownish-gray, waxy, and mud-like, but they turn brown and scaly as they age ^[42]. Each mass contains 30–50 eggs ^[43][48].

Another telltale sign is honeydew buildup under plants. Spotted lanternflies produce significantly more honeydew than aphids or scales ^[45], and this sugary substance can lead to black sooty mold growth on trees ^[42]. From late spring to early fall, you might notice dark sap streaks running down tree bark, sometimes covered with sooty mold ^[44]. Other signs include increased bee and wasp activity, curling leaves, or reduced fruit production. For the best chance of spotting the insects themselves, check tree trunks and stems at dusk or nighttime, when they tend to gather in large groups ^[43].

Impact on Tree Health

Although spotted lanternflies rarely kill trees outright, their feeding habits can weaken plants significantly. By extracting sap and encouraging sooty mold growth, they reduce a tree’s ability to photosynthesize effectively ^[46][43]. According to the University of Maryland Extension, while their feeding has not been shown to kill plants other than grapevines, it can severely impact overall tree health ^[46]. Young trees are especially at risk; research from Penn State showed that young maples experienced stunted growth due to lanternfly feeding ^[47].

Management Strategies

The primary goal in managing spotted lanternflies is population control rather than total eradication. Jessica Boyles of the Maryland Department of Agriculture emphasizes this approach:

"Extermination is not the goal at this point. It is managing the populations. It is reducing the spread. It is making sure that they do not get any farther than they already are." ^[47]

One of the most effective methods is physically removing the pests. This includes killing adults, nymphs, and egg masses whenever they are found ^[46][2]. Eliminating Tree-of-Heaven from your property can also help, as it is a preferred host ^[46][2].

Preventive steps are also important. Inspect vehicles and outdoor equipment for lanternflies, especially when traveling in and out of quarantine zones ^[46]. Cleaning honeydew from frequently used areas can discourage other pests like ants and wasps from gathering ^[47].

To help track the spread of this invasive pest, report sightings to the Maryland Department of Agriculture ^[46]. For severe infestations, consider reaching out to Pro Landscapes MD’s tree care specialists for targeted solutions.

How to Handle Tree Pest Problems

Managing tree pest infestations requires a clear plan that balances early detection, effective treatment, and preventive care. The secret to success lies in knowing when to take action yourself and when to rely on professional help. These steps are essential for both addressing immediate issues and ensuring long-term tree health.

Regular inspections are a cornerstone of pest management. As the Montgomery County Government advises, "residents should be alert to invasive species that harm native trees in Montgomery County" ^[2]. Early detection is critical – inspect your trees monthly for warning signs like thinning canopies or small exit holes ^[2].

Immediate Actions You Can Take

If you notice pest activity, there are several steps you can take right away to limit damage. For example, if you spot a lanternfly infestation, report it to the Maryland Department of Agriculture. This helps authorities monitor the spread of this invasive species ^[2].

For spongy moth infestations, scrape egg masses into a bag containing water and detergent to destroy them. If you observe heavy defoliation, notify the Maryland Department of Agriculture Spongy Moth Program to report the damage ^[2].

Keeping trees healthy is another key step. Proper watering, mulching, and pruning can reduce stress and make trees less vulnerable to pests ^[52]. If you identify infestations, remove and destroy affected branches to stop the spread.

Professional Treatment Options

Sometimes, immediate actions aren’t enough, and professional treatments become necessary to protect your trees. For pests that target the bark and trunk, specialized methods like trunk injections and bark repair are highly effective.

Trunk injections are particularly useful for pests like the Emerald Ash Borer. These treatments deliver insecticides directly into the tree’s vascular system, providing targeted protection that’s often more effective than soil drenches or bark sprays ^[50][51].

When bark is damaged, prompt repair is essential. The Moyer Blog highlights the risks: "When tree bark is damaged, it can jeopardize the tree’s vitality, making it susceptible to diseases, stunted growth, and even death" ^[53]. To address this, clean up loose or jagged bark, smooth the edges, and apply a non-toxic tree wound dressing to protect exposed areas. During winter, using tree wraps can also shield the bark, but make sure to remove them in spring to avoid moisture problems.

When to Call Professional Services

If over-the-counter treatments don’t work or you’re unsure about the type of pest you’re dealing with, it’s time to call in the experts ^[55]. Pest damage often goes unnoticed until it’s advanced, so professional identification can make all the difference in effective treatment.

Dave Walter, a former Pest Control Technician at Terminix, explains the benefits: "A professional is trained to have safety first in his/her mind, and will address the problem in a way that uses less product to greater effect, and reduces the customer’s exposure to pesticides" ^[58].

Professional services offer tailored pest management solutions and long-term prevention strategies. For example, Integrated Pest Management (IPM) programs take an environmentally conscious approach to pest control ^[54][57]. These programs often include regular inspections by certified arborists, preventative treatments like spraying or soil injections, and techniques like aeration ^[57].

When DIY efforts aren’t enough, specialized expertise becomes essential. Pro Landscapes MD, for instance, provides expert tree care across central Maryland, including areas like Montgomery County, Howard County, and Baltimore County. Their horticulturists can identify pest problems early and deliver targeted treatments to safeguard your trees.

Regular inspections by professionals can catch early signs of pest damage and ensure safe, effective solutions ^[56][58].

Conclusion

Quick action and early detection play a vital role in protecting Maryland’s trees from destructive pests. Take the emerald ash borer, for instance – it can completely devastate ash trees in as little as three years after infestation ^[2]. To make matters worse, up to 100 tree species across the U.S. could face extinction in the coming decades due to the combined effects of invasive pests and climate change ^[59]. These pests don’t just harm individual trees; they leave them more susceptible to diseases, drought, heat, and urban pollution, often leading to their eventual demise ^[2].

John Hooven, an Associate Agent with the University of Maryland Extension, highlights the importance of proactive measures:

"Our society needs to do more about preventing the spread of invasive species. An ounce of prevention, as they say … . It is not sustainable to invest in control after a species invades. Humans are the No. 1 invasive species. It’s our responsibility, therefore, to steward the lands and prevent and correct the spread of invasive species across the landscape." ^[59]

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is a key tool in combating these issues. By addressing problems early, IPM helps avoid costly damage and supports the long-term health of trees ^[57]. Piper Burch, a pest management expert, underscores the value of professional care:

"A professional tree service is essential for protecting the health and longevity of trees. Regular inspections, early detection, and expert treatments help prevent pest outbreaks and disease progression. These services not only maintain tree health but also improve the safety and beauty of the surrounding environment." ^[60]

This comprehensive approach balances immediate pest control with long-term preservation of the landscape.

When it comes to identifying and treating complex pest problems, professional expertise is indispensable. Pro Landscapes MD’s horticulturists specialize in managing the unique challenges that central Maryland’s trees face. Their targeted solutions not only protect your landscape but also contribute to the health of the broader ecosystem, ensuring your trees can thrive even under increasing pest pressures.

FAQs

What are the first signs of tree pests that Maryland homeowners should be aware of?

Maryland homeowners should keep an eye out for signs of tree pest infestations to avoid serious damage. Here are some common red flags to watch for:

• Bark Problems: Look for small holes, cracks, peeling bark, or sawdust-like material (known as frass). These are often signs of wood-boring pests like emerald ash borers.
• Odd Growths: Bumps, galls, or sticky resin (pitch tubes) on tree trunks and branches might indicate trouble.
• Damaged Leaves: Leaves that are curled, stunted, or appear skeletonized could mean pests like aphids or caterpillars are present.
• Thinning Canopy: A sparse or thinning crown, especially at the top of the tree, is another potential warning sign.

Catching these issues early can make all the difference in maintaining the health and appearance of your trees. Experts, such as the team at Pro Landscapes MD, can offer helpful advice and solutions to ensure your trees stay in great shape.

What can I do to prevent invasive pests like the Emerald Ash Borer from damaging trees in my area?

To protect your local trees from pests like the Emerald Ash Borer (EAB), the key is keeping your trees in good health – stressed trees are much easier targets for infestations. Regular inspections are a must. Look for signs like thinning leaves, small D-shaped exit holes in the bark, or even an uptick in woodpecker activity. Spot something suspicious? Report it to local authorities right away to help stop the spread.

Another crucial step: don’t move firewood. EAB larvae can hitch a ride and infest new areas without you even realizing it. For ash trees that are still in good shape (with less than 30% canopy damage), insecticide treatments can be a solid option. These treatments work best when repeated every 2–3 years. By staying alert and taking action, you’re playing a vital role in safeguarding your community’s trees from invasive threats like the EAB.

How can I effectively manage Crapemyrtle Bark Scale to keep my trees healthy and looking their best?

To keep your Crapemyrtle trees healthy and free from Bark Scale, focus on proper care and maintenance. Start by keeping your trees strong – use mulch to retain moisture, water them consistently, and apply fertilizers based on soil test recommendations. Strong, healthy trees are naturally better at fending off infestations.

If treatment becomes necessary, consider applying a systemic insecticide like imidacloprid between late April and early May, when the trees are actively growing. This timing ensures the insecticide is most effective. Additionally, you can manually reduce scale populations by scrubbing the affected areas with a soft-bristle brush and soapy water.

Make it a habit to regularly inspect your trees for any signs of pests. Addressing issues quickly, combined with good preventative care, will keep your Crapemyrtle trees thriving and looking beautiful throughout the year.

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