A few days ago we talked about scale on crape myrtles, and how they are the cause of that black sooty mold that covers the branches and foliage. This is our process for controlling this tough little critter...it takes multiple applications to get the job done. We do two foliar applications and one deep root application that will give you some extended coverage (for DIYers that do not have an injector, a drench application around the base of the tree is recommended). As for the insecticide, there are several out there that target scale. We recommend using something like Zylam insecticide that only targets these chewing, sucking insects. Do your best to stay away from insecticides that may target scale, but also target other friendly insects and pollinators.
Remember, these insects a harder to kill the more mature they get...so check your crape myrtles ASAP!
