Bugs attacking my magnolia tree - Ask Extension
Please help!
I have bugs by the thousands attacking my magnolia tree. The tree is approximately 17 years old.
Last year, my tree had what I though...
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Bugs attacking my magnolia tree #873163
Asked June 14, 2024, 6:07 PM EDT
Please help!
I have bugs by the thousands attacking my magnolia tree. The tree is approximately 17 years old.
Last year, my tree had what I thought were mealy bugs (see picture 1). I treated what I could by spraying them several times with a solution of water, alcohol and Dawn dish detergent. What I couldn’t reach, I used the hose on the jet setting and dislodged them from the branches.
This year, the undersides of the branches are covered with these grey bugs. (See pictures 2 and 3.) In both cases, the bugs excrete a honeydew like substance and are attracting other insects such as flys and bees.
I so hope I don’t lose my tree, it is such a beautiful tree, especially in the spring. Any advice would be most helpful.
Thank you.
Ramsey County Minnesota
Expert Response
Good Morning Ann Marie,
Thank you for contacting the U of M Extension Service.
Please click on the following link about scale insects on trees: https://extension.umn.edu/yard-and-garden-insects/scale-insects#soft-scales-on-deciduous-trees-860011
If you scroll down, it discusses magnolia scale.
This information states:
Damage:
- Infested branches and twigs can be weakened and growth slowed.
- Honeydew created by the scales attracts ants, wasps and other insects.
- Honeydew and sooty mold affects the primary host as well as neighboring plants.
- Heavy infestations covering branches can cause branches and entire plants to die.
The past few years, several magnolias have been lost to the scale insect. From viewing your photos, it appears your tree has an infestation.
Good Luck!
