Willow Scale
Scientific Name: Tuberculatus querceus
Scientific Type: Scale Insects
The Willow Scale (Tuberculatus querceus) is a type of armored scale insect that feeds on willow trees. They are small, immobile insects that attach themselves to twigs, branches and leaves of willows, where they feed by sucking sap from the tree.
Willow Scales are most commonly found in the eastern United States, but have been reported in other regions as well. They have a distinct, round, brown or grayish scale cover, with a diameter of about 2 mm, that protects the body of the insect underneath. This scale cover is where the insect resides and feeds, making it difficult to spot the insect itself.
Damage caused by Willow Scales can be significant, especially when large populations of the insects are present. Their feeding causes yellowing and wilting of the leaves, and can lead to twig and branch dieback. In severe infestations, the tree may lose its leaves and become stunted in growth.
Willow Scale infestations are typically noticed in late summer to early fall, when the scales are most visible and noticeable. Control of Willow Scale is best accomplished by using a combination of chemical and cultural controls. Chemical controls include using insecticides to kill the insects, and cultural controls include maintaining tree health and removing any infected or weakened parts of the tree.
Preventative measures, such as regularly monitoring for infestations and promoting the health of the tree, can also help to reduce the likelihood of Willow Scale outbreaks. Overall, it is important to address Willow Scale infestations as soon as they are noticed, as they can quickly become difficult to control if left unchecked.