Blog, Disease & Pest Prevention, Plant Health Care
Oystershell Scale: Identify & Control
Oysters on your trees? This is not the water-dwelling creature but a pest known as oysterscale. Oysterscale, or mussel scale, resides in the family of what is known as scale insects that commonly affect trees and shrubs around the country.
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This pest can be very harmful to trees if left untreated. Identifying and controlling oysterscale will go a long way in keeping your trees healthy.
Look For Oyster Shell-Like Scale Covering Branches
Oytstershell scale is caused by a scale insect, not a fungus. Oystershell adults excrete a waxy cover that gives it is oyster-like appearance. This cover protects the insect’s eggs throughout the winter. Eggs hatch from mid-to late April and crawlers are active into early May.
Symptoms Result In Reduced Tree Vigor & Health
Another sign that your trees may be suffering from oystershell scale is reduced tree vigor and health:
- Wilting leaves
- Dieback
- Premature leaf drop
These symptoms are often signs of a heavy infestation and can also be an indication of other pests or diseases. Keep an eye on your trees and contact an ISA-certified arborist if you notice worrying symptoms.
Controlling & Preventing Oysterscale In Your Trees
After oysterscale has established itself, horticultural oils cannot kill the pest. Rather, they can be carefully scraped off in the winter and placed in a bucket of hot soapy water to kill the parent scales. In the spring, horticultural oils can be sprayed by a professional to smother the insects. Pruning is also an effective method of controlling oysterscale, when needed.
Before self-treating your trees, contact an ISA-certified arborist from Hansen’s Tree Service for a hassle-free consultation. Hansen’s will inspect your trees and provide a diagnosis and treatment.