Apple: Lecanium scale

• Categories: Apple Apple Insects Tree Fruits
• Last review date: 2026-08-29 08:37

Biology

Lecanium scales are shiny brown insects found on twigs. Adults are 1/8″-1/4″ in diameter and roughly turtle-shaped. They may have light markings or appear somewhat waxy.

Crawlers (immature scales) are flatter. Scales produce large amounts of honeydew, a sweet, sticky material which may attract ants or become covered with a growth of dark sooty mold.

Branches with heavy scale infestations may be wilted, yellowish, or show other signs of stress. New growth may be stunted or lacking.

Lecanium scale is a common pest in the landscape, infesting many plants including dogwood, maple, rhododendron, willow, and most fruit trees.

Management Options

See "Using Integrated Pest Management (IPM) in the Landscape" for successful problem management techniques.

Non-chemical Management

Select non-chemical management options as your first choice!

• Natural enemies such as ladybird beetles and green lacewings help control scale populations. Avoid use of broad-spectrum insecticides which kill these and other beneficial insects.
• Control honeydew-feeding ants which may protect scales from predators.
• Hand-wipe to help control minor infestations.
• Prune and destroy heavily infested branches, when practical.

Chemical Management

• Oils are effective in the dormant or delayed dormant period.
• Apply spray oils March to April.
• Use superior type oil sprays only on overwintering nymphs.
• Homeowners should not make foliar applications to trees over 10 ft tall.
• Consult a commercial pesticide applicator for treatment of trees and shrubs over 10 ft. tall.

Approved Pesticides

If you choose to use a pesticide, some examples of products that are legal in Washington are listed below. Some products are labeled for just INDOOR or just OUTDOOR use, or may allow both uses. Be sure to choose a product appropriate for your situation. Always read and follow all label directions.

• R-T-U Year-Round Spray Oil
  Active ingredient: mineral oil
  EPA registration number: 6218-78
• Safer Brand Neem Oil Concentrate
  Active ingredient: NEEM Oil, Clarified Hydrophobic Extract
  EPA registration number: 70051-2-42697
• This list may not include all products registered for this use.