Beneath the Canopy

With spring arriving soon in North Texas, trees and flowers will soon burst into bloom, bringing vibrant colors and fresh growth. However, along with this renewal comes an unwelcome challenge: tree pests. Among the most notorious springtime nuisances in North Texas are Aphids and Crape Myrtle Bark Scale (CMBS). Understanding these pests and how to manage them effectively can help protect your trees and maintain the beauty of your landscape.

What Are Aphids and Crape Myrtle Bark Scale?

Aphids

Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on plant sap by piercing leaves. They reproduce rapidly and are often found in large colonies on the undersides of leaves and near new growth. While crape myrtles can host aphids, these pests infest a wide variety of trees and plants. Aphids excrete honeydew, a sugary substance that coats leaves, branches, and even cars parked under infested trees. This residue attracts ants and promotes the growth of sooty mold, which gives plants a black, dirty appearance and can inhibit photosynthesis.

Crape Myrtle Bark Scale (CMBS)

CMBS is an invasive pest that specifically targets Crape Myrtles. These tiny, white or gray, wax-covered insects attach to the bark and branches, feeding on sap. Like aphids, they produce honeydew, leading to the same unsightly sooty mold. If left untreated, CMBS infestations can reduce a tree’s vigor, limiting its ability to bloom and thrive.

Signs of an Infestation

To determine if your trees are infested, look for the following signs:

• Sticky residue (honeydew) on leaves, branches, and nearby surfaces like cars or sidewalks
• Black mold forming on the trunk, stems, and leaves
• Clusters of small white or gray insects attached to tree bark (CMBS)
• Wilting or curling leaves (common with aphid infestations)
• Stunted growth and reduced flowering

How to Control and Treat These Pests

‍DIY Treatment Options

If you notice an early infestation, there are several home remedies you can try to manage the pests before they get out of hand.

1. Rubbing with Soapy Water – Mix mild dish soap with water and use a soft cloth or sponge to gently scrub affected areas of your tree. This removes CMBS and aphids while breaking down the sticky honeydew. For aphids, spraying a diluted soap solution (about one tablespoon per gallon of water) directly onto the insects can suffocate them.
2. Pruning & Disposal – If the infestation is concentrated in one area, pruning infested branches can help control the spread. Be sure to properly dispose of any infected material to prevent further contamination.
3. Encouraging Natural Predators – The Twice-Stabbed Lady Beetle is a natural predator of CMBS. Although they’re not available for purchase, you can create a welcoming habitat for these predators in your yard by planting native flowers. Aphids can be controlled by attracting natural predators like ladybugs, lacewings, parasitic wasps, hoverflies, and birds through diverse planting, avoiding pesticides, and providing water.

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Professional Treatment Options

Treehugger Tree Service provides specialized pest control services designed for your yard's specific ecosystem. These services effectively control pests while maintaining your landscape's overall health. 

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Give us a call today to ensure a pest-free, beautiful spring!

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