Knowledgebase

azalea scale #865618

Asked April 23, 2024, 2:56 PM EDT

How to control azalea scale

Baltimore County Maryland

Expert Response

Hi, 

You can reference ourAzalea and Rhododendron Diagnostic Page for guidance. If the population is low, you can gently 'scrub' or pick off the scale. Maybe a hard bristle toothbrush would help. If the population is high you can use a horticultural oil after July to target the new emerging crawlers. 

It would be best to confirm that it is Azalea Bark Scale to target treatment. You can attach a photo to a reply if you would like us to do so. 

Emily

Answered by the Home and Garden Information Center (HGIC), University of Maryland Extension. For timely gardening information and tips, subscribe to our Maryland Grows blog and quarterly newsletter. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. Replied April 23, 2024, 3:24 PM EDT

Thanks for your quick reply!  This has been building up over several seasons. It is rather obvious what I am dealing with – it looks like the “oil” is the safest approach (considering other insects in the area).

 

Thanks, again!

 

George Sack

 

From: ask=<personal data hidden> <ask=<personal data hidden>> On Behalf Of Ask Extension
Sent: Tuesday, April 23, 2024 3:25 PM
To: George H. Sack, Jr. <<personal data hidden>>
Subject: Re: azalea scale (#0135539)

 

The Question Asker Replied April 23, 2024, 3:35 PM EDT

ok- and yes the oil will be safest for beneficial insects. It kills on contact by smothering. 

Answered by the Home and Garden Information Center (HGIC), University of Maryland Extension. For timely gardening information and tips, subscribe to our Maryland Grows blog and quarterly newsletter. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. Replied April 23, 2024, 4:05 PM EDT

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