Crape Myrtle Bark Scale: A Growing Threat in Our Area

If you've noticed your crape myrtles looking a bit off lately, covered in a black, sooty substance or showing white, crusty deposits on branches and trunks, you're not alone. I've recently discovered crape myrtle bark scale on several client properties here in Wilmington, and it's time we all started paying closer attention to this invasive pest.

What Is Crape Myrtle Bark Scale?

Crape myrtle bark scale (Acanthococcus lagerstroemiae) is a relatively new invasive insect that feeds on crape myrtle trees by sucking sap from branches and trunks. Native to Asia, this pest was first identified in the United States in Texas around 2004 and has been steadily spreading eastward ever since. The insects themselves appear as white or gray felt-like encrustations on the bark, often concentrated at branch junctions and along the trunk.

How to Identify an Infestation

The telltale signs of crape myrtle bark scale include:

White crusty patches: These are the actual scale insects, which look like white or light gray felt covering portions of the bark. Heavy infestations can make branches appear almost painted white.

Black sooty mold: As the scales feed, they excrete a sticky substance called honeydew. This honeydew becomes a breeding ground for black sooty mold, which can cover leaves, branches, and even anything underneath the tree, like sidewalks or patio furniture.

Reduced vigor: Heavily infested trees may show stunted growth, reduced flowering, and overall decline in health.

Why You Should Be Concerned

While crape myrtle bark scale rarely kills mature trees outright, it significantly impacts their health and appearance. The black sooty mold obscures the beautiful exfoliating bark that makes crape myrtles so desirable, and heavy infestations can weaken trees over time. Plus, the mess created by honeydew dripping onto surfaces below makes the area around infested trees unpleasant to use.

Perhaps most concerning is how quickly this pest spreads. Scale insects can be transported by wind, birds, and even on our clothing or tools. Without proper management, an infestation on one property can easily spread to neighboring landscapes.

Stay Vigilant

The key to managing crape myrtle bark scale is early detection. I'm asking all of you to inspect your crape myrtles now and throughout the season. If you spot the characteristic white encrustations or black sooty mold, reach out so we can develop a management plan before the problem gets worse.

This pest isn't going away on its own, but with careful monitoring and appropriate treatment, we can keep our crape myrtles healthy and beautiful. Let's work together to protect these beloved landscape staples from this invasive threat.

Have you noticed signs of crape myrtle bark scale on your property? Don't hesitate to contact me for an evaluation and treatment recommendations.