For Immediate Release: July 26, 2004
Media Contact: Jayson DeGeeter, 847.729.1963

MAGNOLIA SCALE POPULATIONS ATTACK CHICAGOLAND MAGNOLIA TREES

GLENVIEW, IL — The arborists at Autumn Tree Care Experts have noticed a sharp increase in magnolia scale (Neolecanium cornuparvum) populations during the past few months. These unusual insects are about to give birth to next year's population in late August through September. Chicagoland residents are well-advised to act now to help control the spread of this insect.

Few trees can match the refined elegance of a magnolia in spring. The tree's charm can be dampened by the onset of magnolia scales, though. The less-than-attractive effects of the pest include the presence of a sticky clear liquid (called "honeydew") oozing along the branches, black sooty mold growing on the tree's leaves, and wasps and ants congregating around the tree.

Magnolia scales don't look much like an insect: they are often described as "bumps" lining the branches of a magnolia tree. Mature female scales are approximately 1/2" in diameter, elliptical, and convex in shape. They range in color from pinkish-orange to dark brown, and develop a white, wax-like coating when mature. To add to their oddity, the insects don't move. Adult scales are permanently affixed to the branches of the host.

Lifecycle
Scales give birth to living young, known as crawlers, in late August. Crawlers quickly move out to young twigs, where they affix themselves and begin feeding. The young scale — or nymphs — mature from late July through early August, at which time the males emerge as small fly-like insects that mate with the females and die. One generation is produced each year.

Landscape Effects
When a magnolia scale feeds on the host plant, it inserts a syringe-like mouth into the plant's vascular system. Scales are capable of removing considerable amounts of vital fluids from the tree. Trees can be seriously injured or killed by heavy infestations of magnolia scale. In less acute infestations, foliage and flower production may be reduced and branch die-back may occur.
Treatment
Unfortunately, there are only a few windows when scales can be treated effectively. The best time to attack crawlers is in August and September, just after they have emerged: so be proactive. If your magnolia tree is exhibiting the signs of an infestation, contact your arborist now to schedule the necessary applications to control the spread of the insect.

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 Heath Sponsor of the Chicago Botanic Garden and is a member of the International Society of Arboriculture, the Tree Care Industry Association (formerly the National Arborist Association), the American Society of Consulting Arborists, and the Illinois Landscape Contractors Association.

If you suspect that your magnolia tree is infested with magnolia scales and would like a free estimate, or if you require additional information about magnolia scales and their effect upon the landscape, please contact Autumn Tree Care Experts at 847.729.1963.