White spots on cherry tree bark - Ask Extension
I have searched and searched the internet, but can't find an answer as to what the white spots on my cherry tree bark are. I have attached a few pict...
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White spots on cherry tree bark #633708
Asked May 10, 2020, 2:52 PM EDT
I have searched and searched the internet, but can't find an answer as to what the white spots on my cherry tree bark are. I have attached a few pictures. I have 2 trees dwarf sour cherry trees that I got from the same place and planted at the same time. They are about 10 feet apart. As you can see, the "infected" tree is about a week later than the other. I have also included up close pictures of both trees' bark. The white spots cover the entire bark area of the tree; trunk, branches and twigs. Another message will be following with 3 more pictures. Thank you! Jessica
Ottawa County Michigan
Expert Response
Appears to be a serious scale infection, a tiny insect that settles into one place and forms a hardened shell to protect itself. If insect numbers are high enough they can weaken the tree and could even kill it. The most effective way to control scale is with dormant oil sprays. These sprays are applied in the early spring as growth begins. Spray timing is all important and needs to happen during a short window when the crawlers are out and before they become encased.
Recommended is an assessment by a Certified Arborist, one who specializes in these matters.You can find one or more Certified Arborists in your zip code at
www.treesaregood.org Go to the Find an Arborist tab. Arborist evaluations are
not expensive and where you will get the correct diagnosis for starters, plus treatment options as well as timing info. Meanwhile read more here:
https://growingsmallfarms.ces.ncsu.edu/2016/02/check-fruit-trees-for-scale-pests/
Good luck!
Recommended is an assessment by a Certified Arborist, one who specializes in these matters.You can find one or more Certified Arborists in your zip code at
www.treesaregood.org Go to the Find an Arborist tab. Arborist evaluations are
not expensive and where you will get the correct diagnosis for starters, plus treatment options as well as timing info. Meanwhile read more here:
https://growingsmallfarms.ces.ncsu.edu/2016/02/check-fruit-trees-for-scale-pests/
Good luck!
