My needle leaf dwarf Japanese Maple has failed to put out new growth this Spring. It also has small rounded "bumps" attached to the twigs. These "bumps" are like cellulose inside, but will release fluid when squished. They are about the size and shape of a lady bug. What are they? Are they interfering with the new growth of my maple? How do I deal with this pest? Thank you. Katy
If the maple didn't leaf out it is dead or nearly so. Partial dieback/sudden death of Japanese maples is a frequently asked about problem. The bumps will likely be scale insects, such as Lecanium. These won't matter much if the tree is already history.
The tree is basically okay. Only the top layer didn't leaf out. 90% of the tree is in full leaf. How do I take care of this pest now that the tree is in leaf? Should I also dormant spray next winter? What do you suggest? Thanks
for moment cut the branch dry ,if is pest and another branch become dry ,alarm!! ask to professional garden shop near your country.regards alex
Bayer Adavanced Tree and Shrub Insect Killer is applied as a soil drench, is systemic, and lasts for up to 12 months. I have had great luck with this. Also, a dormant oil spray when there are no leaves present (hence the dormant part) can control scale.
Dixie, I was thinking of using this on my container maples to control and get rid of spider mites. Does the label say it controls spider mites? How long before the systemic action kicks in? Is it ok to use on young maples? thanks, xman
well, the smallest tree i have used it on was a coral bark Japanese maple that was 3/4 inch caliper maybe 5 foot tall. spider mites are not listed on the label, but this product contains the same active ingredient found in Merit, which is labeled for spider mites. so, not sure. http://www.bayeradvanced.com/media/productlabel/502802A_label.pdf for some reason this label is not as descriptive as the one on the actual bottle, but it does list insects controlled.
