2 (1 = rare 5 = annual)

4 (1 = very little damage 5 = plants killed)

Spruce bud scale mainly attacksNorway spruce, but it will attack other spruces.

Tree

• Colorado Spruce (Picea pungens)
• Norway Spruce (Picea abies)

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.

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.

If needed, apply a suggested insecticide. Apply when Hills-of-Snow hydrangea is in bloom. Summer oils will turn blue spruces green.

Home, Yard & Garden Pest Guide
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Illinois Commercial Landscape and Turfgrass Pest Management Handbook
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U of IL - Distance Diagnosis through Digital Imaging
A free plant, weed, insect and disease identification service available through your local University of Illinois Extension office. Center Educators or State Specialists review & respond to information and digital images submitted by local Extension office personnel. Some samples may require further examination or culture work (nominal fee involved) at the U of IL Plant Clinic.
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