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For Immediate Release: June 1, 2005
Media Contact: Jayson DeGeeter, 847.729.1963
ARBORISTS ANTICIPATE INCREASED SCALE INSECT POPULATIONS IN 2005
GLENVIEW, ILLINOIS — The early reports are in, and the outlook is not good. While evaluating trees throughout Chicagoland, the arborists at Autumn Tree Care Experts have already noticed a disturbing rise in scale insect populations. Now — before scale infestations cause considerable damage — area homeowners are encouraged to learn more about this peculiar insect in order to recognize current infestations and safeguard the health of trees and shrubs.
About Scale Insects
Scales don't exactly look or behave like an insect. These inconspicuous pests of evergreen and deciduous plants are often described as "bumps" that attach to branches or leaves of host plants. A scale's small size and lack of mobility make the insect difficult to detect.
While scale insects vary widely from species to species, they are generally characterized by the presence of an oblong, waxy shell. Honeydew is also a common byproduct of a scale infestation. This clear, sticky liquid is excreted by some scale species and prompts the growth of black sooty mold on foliage. Honeydew also invites wasps to congregate around the infested host.
As they feed, scale insects suck large quantities of vital plant fluids from the host, which causes the host's foliage or needles to yellow, the branches to dieback, and the host to die.
Recent Observations
According to ATCE arboricultural services manager, John Kahon, several common scale species — including magnolia scale, euonymus scale, pine needle scale, and European fruit lecanium scale — are exhibiting increased numbers throughout Chicagoland. "This spring's heavy scale insect populations suggest that we may see very large infestations this summer," says Kahon.
Kahon strongly advises homeowners to carefully inspect magnolia, maple, ash, redbud, and euonymus specimens for scale.
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Control
Early detection is one way homeowners can help control scale insect populations. In addition, proper tree care practices — such as watering and pruning — can increase a plant's resilience to minor scale infestations.
In the case of smaller scale populations, natural insect predators and weather conditions play a role; however, when scale populations boom, more aggressive treatments are necessary.
Timing is the most important issue in the control of scale insects. Scales are most susceptible to treatment just after they hatch, but before they settle to feed and develop their waxy helmet. During this "crawler" phase, the insects can be treated with considerable success.
About Autumn Tree Care Experts
Autumn Tree Care Experts is a full-service, ISA certified arboricultural firm that has been dedicated to tree preservation since 1979. The company's services include tree pruning and fertilization, disease diagnosis and treatment, pest management, cabling/bracing, and pre/post construction consultations. Autumn Tree Care Experts serves as the exclusive Tree Health Care Sponsor of the Chicago Botanic Garden and is a member of the International Society of Arboriculture, the Tree Care Industry Association, the American Society of Consulting Arborists, and the Illinois Landscape Contractors Association.
For additional information about scale insects and their control, contact Autumn Tree Care Experts at 847.729.1963
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