Hosts
Spruce bud scale mainly attacksNorway spruce, but it will attack other spruces.
Spruce Bud Scale
Pathogen Type
Scientific Name
Physokermes piceae
Frequency
2
Severity
4
Symptoms
This scale is small and is often clustered in-groups of 3 to 8 at the base of new shoots. Their size and color often allows them to be overlooked or mistaken as buds. They are round and reddish-brown in color. Lower branches are more often attacked than higher branches. Severe infestations can produce sufficient honeydew to allow sooty mold to grow. In addition severe infestations can cause lower branches to die, especially on trees that are already weak or stressed.
Cycle
There is only one generation per growing season. The immatures overwinter on the under side of the needles. In the spring, the females move onto the twigs to complete their development. Crawlers usually appear in June.
Management
If needed, apply a suggested insecticide. Apply when Hills-of-Snow hydrangea is in bloom. Summer oils will turn blue spruces green.
Credit
James E. Schuster, retired Extension Specialist, Horticulture & Plant Pathology and reviewed by Dr. Philip L. Nixon, Extension Entomologist, Crop Sciences, University of Illinois
PathogenID
64
Images
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33268
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33269
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33270
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31181