Knowledgebase

crepe myrtle question #929409

Asked April 23, 2026, 3:58 PM EDT

Good afternoon, a deer attacked our crepe myrtle last fall and damaged the bark. There are some small white insects surrounding that area now. Can you please advise if this is an issue, and if so, is there a remedy? Thank you very much.

Montgomery County Maryland

Expert Response

Hi, 

These are Crapemyrtle Bark Scale. They have become an increasing pest of Crapemyrtles in Maryland. With this small population, you can simply scrape them off, but check the rest of your tree for more. Many natural predators will help control their populations so no insecticide is warranted at this time. 

Continue to monitor your trees, and the link provided will give you more details on management techniques should you need them. 

Emily

Answered by the Home and Garden Information Center (HGIC), University of Maryland Extension. For timely gardening information and tips, subscribe to our Maryland Grows blog and quarterly newsletter. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. Replied April 23, 2026, 5:40 PM EDT

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