Cottony maple scale

Cottony maple scale produces distinctive white, cottony egg sacs along maple branches and twigs in spring, creating very visible fuzzy growth on the tree. You will see the scale insects embedded beneath these waxy coverings throughout spring and summer, feeding on sap. Heavy infestations cause yellowing of leaves, wilting of new growth, and dieback of twigs. Excessive honeydew secretion attracts wasps and promotes sooty mold growth beneath infested trees.

Conserve black lady beetles, particularly Hyperaspis signata, which feed in egg sacs and on nymphs; avoid insecticides that kill these predators. Prune heavily infested branches. Spray insecticidal soap or horticultural oil for crawler nymphs in early summer. Improve tree vigor through proper irrigation.