Magnolia Scale: White "Pussywillow" Bumps Need Systemic Treatment

Pest Identification

White, pussywillow-like bumps on magnolia branches, crisp shell with liquid inside = Magnolia Scale (Neolecanium cornuparvum). Large, conspicuous soft scale. Dead branches = heavy infestation.

Why Hand-Picking Fails

• Only removes adults; crawlers (mobile babies) already dispersed.
• Labor-intensive on large trees.
• Doesn't prevent reinfestation.

Effective Systemic Control

Bayer Advanced Tree & Shrub Insect Control (imidacloprid soil drench)

• Applied to soil at base.
• Roots absorb → moves to leaves/twigs.
• Scale feeds → dies.
• One application = season-long control.
• Best timing: early spring (before crawler hatch) or fall.

Supplemental Actions

• Horticultural oil spray (dormant season) smothers overwintering nymphs.
• Prune heavily infested dead branches.
• Monitor for sooty mold (black fungus on honeydew)—clears after scale controlled.

Systemic is the only practical way to treat scale on large magnolias. Sprays can't reach all surfaces.