This is an example of lecanium scale on the branch of a pin oak. You will notice what looks like wine colored bumps on the branches. These bumps are the shells of the scale insect. Lecanuim scale live under their protective shells, suck the sugary sap from the tree, and lay eggs for the next generation to come. In early June, the scale “crawlers” emerge from under the shell and find themselves a new home on the tree. If left unchecked, scale insects can take over a tree in just a few seasons.
The best way to control lecanium scale is to spray the entire tree with a mild insecticide, during the time the crawlers are out in the open. Shrub Doctor uses a nicotine based product that has proven to be very effective in controlling scale. Some tree services treat scale infestatons using a tree injection method. This method requires drilling holes in the trunk of the tree, and is often limited in its success. If you feel your trees may have scale infestations, call Shrub Doctor for a free consultation. Shrub Doctor has performed many successful treatments to control lecanuim scale, and is often less expensive than traditional tree services.
