Crape Myrtle Pests: Aphids, Lady Beetle Larvae, and Sooty Mold

Two crape myrtles (Miami pink, Dynamite red) have black powdery substance on leaves and aphids. Also two other abundant insects: (1) black, <0.5 inch, black spikes with two rows of orange spikes on midsection; (2) round orange, 0.25 inch, few black spots.

Diagnosis

• Black powder = sooty mold growing on aphid honeydew
• Spiky black insect = lady beetle (ladybug) larva—predator of aphids
• Orange round insect = likely adult lady beetle (photo needed for certainty)

Management

1. Treat aphids with insecticidal soap (removes aphids + honeydew + mold)
2. Application guide
3. Lady beetles are beneficial—do not kill them
4. Search "ladybug larvae" for comparison images