Wax Scale on Little Gem Magnolia: Systemic Treatment

Newly planted Little Gem Magnolias in Birmingham, AL show growths on branches (photo).

Identification

Wax scale insects—also common on hollies. Suck plant juices, weaken tree.

Treatment

Few scales: prune and destroy affected branches. Many: Bayer Advanced Garden Tree and Shrub Insect Control (imidacloprid)—blue bottle, mix with water, soil application. Reads label carefully. Scales don't fall off when dead—monitor for new ones. Takes time for systemic uptake.