Oyster-shell Scale in the Eagle Valley
Oyster-shell Scale is common on many trees and shrubs in our area. This insect is very fond of Ash, Aspen, Cottonwood, Willow and Lilacs. Oyster-shell Scale eggs hatch in late May and crawl through the end of June and are the most damaging scale in Colorado. Oyster Shell Scale literally sucks the life from trees and shrubs making them susceptible to pathogens. Our arborists recommend spraying while these critters are in the crawler stage, generally between the end of May through early June. So, if you have trees of the species listed above that do not look happy, chances are they are beginning to succumb to Oyster-shell Scale or other pests and pathogens that can eventually lead to significant decline and even death.
Quick Facts…
- Oyster-shell scale develops on the bark of many common trees and shrubs and can cause serious injury during outbreaks.
- Oyster-shell eggs typically hatch in late May or early June and the active ‘crawlers’ that emerge move about to find new sites to feed.
- Sprays applied when the crawlers are present can be very effective in controlling oyster-shell scale.
- Oils are useful for control of oyster-shell scale.
Think your trees might suffer from this? Contact us for a FREE CONSULT.