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Sooty disease #867732

Asked May 09, 2024, 12:27 PM EDT

I have two magnolia trees in my yard. They both have very black bark and I've been told it is Sooty disease. The leaves and flowers seem fine, but the bark is very black and sooty looking. I have been told I need to take the trees out because it will spread to other trees and bushes and there is no cure. Is there a way for me to cure the disease? Is there anything I can treat it with? Will it spread to other bushes? Any suggestions?

Hennepin County Minnesota

Expert Response

It looks like you have Magnolia scale. It is becoming very common in Hennepin County. 

While there are options to treat it when it first starts it looks like your trees are severely infested. 

I would call a tree care professional for an opinion once they see the actual trees. 

To date, they have not found an effective treatment for Magnolia Scale once it gets out of hand. 

From your phots, it looks like your trees will probably not survive. 

https://apps.extension.umn.edu/garden/diagnose/insect/trees-shrubs/not-obvious/magnoliascale.html

https://extension.unh.edu/blog/2018/07/why-are-leaves-my-magnolia-turning-black-attracting-wasps#:~:text=Magnolia%20scale%20feed%20on%20plant,such%20as%20ants%20and%20wasps.

Deb Reierson Replied May 11, 2024, 8:29 AM EDT

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