Kermes Scale Attacks Oak Trees

One of the Midwest's highly respected Certified Arborist has noticed a significant increase of infestation with the Kermes Scale bug. "The Kermes Scale love to dine and thrive on Pin and Red Oaks and are unusually active this year", stated Chad Gilliland, Certified Arborist from Arbor Masters Tree Service.

These tiny, brown round insects with a hard exterior shell are often seen as part of the branch. Normally seen at the intersection of twigs to a branch, they are often mistaken for a plant bud (see picture on left below). These insects can cause twig dieback and leaf curling. Oozing sap may appear at the site of the infestation.




This insect is very aggressive and can be especially damaging to pin oak trees. However, there is treatment for the Kermes Scale. Proper soil injection treatments at the base of the tree, performed by a trained professional, can keep the insect infestation under control.

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