Cottony Cushion Scale on Acer in Rome: Dormant Oil and Crawler Timing

Cottony cushion scale on a maple (Acer) in Rome requires treatment timed to the crawler stage. Adults under waxy sacs are pesticide-resistant.

Indoor vs. Outdoor

If potted and movable, place outdoors—natural predators (vedalia beetles) will control it.

Chemical Control (If Needed)

• Dormant season: Apply narrow-range horticultural oil to deciduous hosts.
• Growing season: Spray when crawlers (tiny red/orange) emerge. Use double-sided sticky tape on branches to detect hatch.
• Insecticides: Malathion or acephate (Orthene) if natural enemies absent. Use carefully to spare beneficials.

Manual Removal (Small Plants)

Brush off adults with soapy water. Swab crawlers with alcohol.

Monitor

Change sticky tapes weekly. Spray at peak crawler emergence.