Crape Myrtle Bark Scale – What It Is and Why It’s Wreaking Havoc on North Texas Trees
Crape Myrtle Bark Scale – What It Is and Why It’s Wreaking Havoc on North Texas Trees
Published by Urban Garden Solutions
Crape myrtles are a signature plant in North Texas landscapes. When cared for correctly, they’re hardy, bloom beautifully through the summer, and require minimal pruning. But over the last decade, a new and persistent pest has changed how we manage these iconic trees.
What Is Crape Myrtle Bark Scale?
CMBS is a tiny, invasive insect that feeds on the sap of crape myrtles by attaching itself to the bark and forming cottony, white or grayish crusts along the trunk and branches. Unlike soft-bodied scale insects, these are armored and often cluster in large colonies.
They were first identified in Texas around 2004 and have spread aggressively, thanks to their rapid reproduction and ability to overwinter in the bark.
Why Is It a Problem?
While CMBS rarely kills a tree outright, it can significantly weaken it over time. Their feeding reduces overall vigor and causes:
Sooty mold buildup from sugary honeydew excreted by the insects
Blackened bark and foliage that interferes with photosynthesis
Reduced blooming and stunted growth
Unattractive appearance that affects landscape value
And because the insects attach under the bark's surface layer, they’re difficult to eliminate with essential insecticides or soap sprays.
Signs Your Crape Myrtle Has Bark Scale:
White to gray waxy clumps on bark, especially near branch junctions
Black, sticky coating (sooty mold) on the trunk, leaves, or nearby surfaces
Poor flowering or declining canopy health
The UGS Approach to CMBS Management:
At Urban Garden Solutions, we don’t believe in one-size-fits-all treatment. Our integrated approach includes:
Systemic insecticide applications to control scale from within
Timed treatments based on pest life cycles (spring and early summer)
Bark washing and cleaning to remove surface buildup
Pruning out severely infested branches
Tree fertilization and care to support recovery and regrowth
Final Word:
Crape Myrtle Bark Scale is not a minor nuisance—it’s a landscape-wide issue that requires targeted, seasonal treatment. Early detection and proper care can help your crape myrtles bounce back and keep blooming year after year.
Don't wait for the damage to spread if you think your trees might be affected. Contact UGS for a site evaluation and custom treatment plan.
Urban Garden Solutions
Tree & Shrub Care | Pest Management | North Texas Experts
