Identification

• The magnolia scale attaches its strong sucking mouth to the stems of the magnolia tree to suck its nutrients. The insect covers its body with a waxy, white protective coating. The insects may completely encrust the tree's stems.
  
  

Effects

• The insect secretes a honeydew-like substance from its body as it feeds on the tree's sap. The honeydew grows a black, sooty mold that renders the leaves and stems of the tree black. The mold attracts an abundance of flies, ants, bees and wasps, according to the Ohio State University.
  
  

Prevention/Solution

• Apply horticultural oils in late August to control scale insects. Apply dormant oil sprays in October, November and March for control. A wide array of insecticide sprays formulated to effectively kill and control the magnolia scale insect can be applied in late August and September.