Crapemyrtle Bark Scale, a relatively new pest first discovered in Dallas, has invaded the Jackson and Madison County area.

Signs are a black, sooty mold.

The Madison County UT Extension Institute of Agriculture offers a few tips on how you might save your plant.

You are advised to wash the trunk and reachable limbs of the crapemyrtle with a soft brush and mild solution of dish washing soap.

This process will remove many of the scale and egg masses, a majority of the black soot – and increase the effectiveness of insecticide control.

You may also clean with a power washer, using a 15-degree fan-shaped nozzle pattern using the least amount of pressure that is needed to remove them.

During the growing season, drenching the root zone with a systematic insecticide has shown promise with best control when applied between May and July.

(PHOTO: Crapemyrtle Bark Scale is visible on this plant near Gander Outdoors on Vann Drive. Healthier Crapemyrtle can be seen in the background)
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