Crape Myrtle Bark Scale

Crape myrtle bark scale has been found in Henderson County. This pest was first recognized in the Charlotte area but has since spread across the state.

Like other scales it is a sucking insect using a needle-like mouthpart to extract sap from the plant. Their sugary droppings become covered in black sooty mold. Eventually the parasitic insects cause plants to decline.

Treating with insecticides is the the only way to control crape myrtle bark scale.  Neonicotinoid insecticides should be avoided on plants that are flowering because pollinators visiting the flowers can be affected. Pyrethroids can be effective but are hard on beneficial insects. Dormant oils which smother the eggs can be applied in the winter and are the most environmentally friendly way to control the insects. Or the plants can be removed.

Finally, gardeners and landscapers can avoid crape myrtles all together and choose to plant native plants that resist pests.