Magnolia trees are a beautiful addition to any landscape, with their large, glossy leaves and stunning flowers. However, these trees can fall victim to a common pest known as magnolia scale, which not only damages the tree itself but also attracts other unwanted insects to your yard. In this blog post, we'll explore what magnolia scale is, the types of insects it attracts, and why it's essential to address the issue promptly.
What is Magnolia Scale?
Magnolia scale (Neolecanium cornuparvum) is one of the largest scale insects in North America, and it primarily targets magnolia trees, especially the star magnolia, saucer magnolia, and cucumber tree. These pests appear as small, oval bumps on the branches of your magnolia tree, ranging in color from brown to pinkish-orange, often covered with a waxy coating.
The damage caused by magnolia scale can be significant. The insects feed on the sap of the tree, weakening it over time. As they feed, they excrete a sticky substance known as honeydew, which can coat leaves, branches, and anything else beneath the tree. This honeydew not only makes the tree look unsightly but also creates an ideal environment for the growth of sooty mold, a black fungus that further diminishes the tree's health and appearance.
Insects Attracted by Magnolia Scale
One of the biggest issues with magnolia scale is the honeydew it produces, which can attract other pests to your yard. Here are a few common insects that are drawn to the honeydew produced by magnolia scale:
Ants: Ants are highly attracted to honeydew and will often be found swarming over areas where magnolia scale is present. While ants themselves don’t damage the tree, they can protect the scale insects from natural predators, worsening the infestation.
Wasps and Bees: These stinging insects are also attracted to the sweet honeydew. Their presence can make spending time in your yard less enjoyable and increase the risk of stings, especially if you have children or pets.
Flies: Like ants, flies are attracted to the sticky honeydew. Their presence around your home can be both a nuisance and a health concern, as flies can spread bacteria.
Sooty Mold: While not an insect, the sooty mold that grows on the honeydew can create further problems. This black, powdery substance can cover leaves and branches, blocking sunlight and hindering the tree’s ability to photosynthesize, leading to further decline in health.
The Importance of Addressing Magnolia Scale
Magnolia scale can weaken your tree, attract unwanted insects, and create an unsightly mess in your yard. If left untreated, it can lead to significant damage to your magnolia tree, potentially causing branches to die off and the overall health of the tree to decline.
Why You Should Call a Professional
Dealing with magnolia scale can be challenging. These pests have a waxy coating that makes them resistant to many over-the-counter insecticides, and improper treatment can often do more harm than good. Additionally, treating an infestation too late in the season may not yield results, as the scale may have already caused significant damage. That’s why it's crucial to call in a professional to handle the problem effectively.
At EcoGuard Pest Control, we have the expertise and tools needed to manage magnolia scale infestations and prevent further damage to your trees. Our trained technicians will assess the situation, recommend the best course of action, and apply treatments that are safe for your trees, your family, and the environment.
Don't let magnolia scale take over your beautiful magnolia trees. Contact EcoGuard Pest Control today at 630-251-5000 to schedule an inspection and protect your landscape from this troublesome pest. With our help, you can keep your magnolia trees healthy and your yard free from unwanted insects.
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