Fact Sheet

Magnolia Scale

Have you noticed sticky leaves and sooty mold on magnolia tree twigs?

It may be from a condition known as magnolia scale. It may also cause fewer or smaller flowers and leaves than what you usually enjoy.

The Problem

Dark gray nymphs overwinter, creating a red-brown median ridge on older twigs. Females give birth to live young called crawlers that wander around for a short period before settling down. They suck sap out of twigs, producing honeydew which attracts other insects.

Symptoms and signs include:

Late bud-break
Diminished leaf and flower size
Poor leaf color and turgor
Branch death

Co-occurring issues or look-alike symptoms:
Honeydew/sooty mold.

The Vineland Prescription

For magnolia scale treatment, apply treatments during the dormant and growing season to control all stages of the insect’s life cycle.

The Prognosis

Using a combination of controls will reduce insect population and to improve the aesthetic quality of the tree.
Starting immediately can reduce large infestations.

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