Euonymus Scale: Identification and Control

A 4-year-old, 6-foot euonymus hedge is losing leaves, with tiny white specks on limbs and foliage. The expert identifies scale insects—likely the primary pest on euonymus. The white “specks” are usually on leaf undersides.

Steps to Confirm and Treat

1. Collect affected leaves and take them to a local garden center or extension office for positive ID.
2. If confirmed as scale, consider systemic insecticides like Orthene or Bayer Advanced Tree & Shrub Insect Control.
3. Apply according to label; systemics are taken up by roots and protect for months.

Early intervention prevents severe dieback. Scale can kill euonymus if left unchecked.