Question
Hi Jim,
I have a crape myrtle that has never bloomed and always looks ratty. The limbs and trunk have pale green, grassy looking moss on it. I pulled a few of the moss clumps off of the trunk and there was larva inside some of them. It looked like a weevil, but I haven't been able to identify it. Do you know what it is? Should I be pulling all of the moss off of the tree?
Thanks,
June

Answer
There is a new weevil in Florida that has been feeding on crepe myrtle leaves. This maybe the case here. I would spray the moss,. trunk and foliage (when it leafs out) with an insecticide called Orthene. Check with your local nursery/garden type store for Orthene. Here is a web link to thsi weevil.
http://floridagardener.com/critters/Insect_Pests/Myllocerus.htm

You can pull the moos off or use a herbicide to control it.

The following materials are licensed for control of  moss : TC Tribasic Copper Sulphate, Blue Shield, Basic Copper 53, Micro Flo Basic Copper 53, Micro Flo Copper 3 FL.
The mixture will be printed on the container that you buy.

It should be noted that there is evidence that copper-based herbicides and fungicides may cause damage to tender growth on trees. I would spray before the leaves bud out or wait until about mid summer when the leaves are not tender. As with all herbicides, when using these materials read and follow label directions carefully.

Hand removal of moss is possible and can be done successfully on small trees by standing on a ladder or using a pole.  The procedure is labor intensive and costly. Homeowners would be well advised to consider the ecological benefits of  moss and let the plant grow unless heavy infestation is endangering the health of the tree through reduced light.

Baking soda has been shown effective for ball moss control at the rate of 40 pounds of baking soda per 100 gallons of water, Mr. Arm & Hammer has not put it on the label SO WE CAN'T RECOMMEND IT! However, if it is used, it should be applied exactly as the herbicides.