One of the most well-adapted trees for our area of the planet is the Crape Myrtle. Yes, it is a tree and not a bush. The Crape Myrtle suffers from very few ailments. However, several bugs just love them. The aphid and scale are the ones that are encountered most. There are several all-natural products to treat these pests, but one of the most effective controls is ladybugs. Why? I am glad you ask. Ladybugs are selective about what they kill. Insecticidal soaps and horticultural oils are non-selective. Lady Bugs love to eat aphids and scale plus we are not spraying insect killers over our heads. Release them at night on the moist ground and they will hang around as long as the aphids and scale are there. When the food is gone most of them will seek out better accommodation. Unfortunately, if the pests return there are usually not enough ladybugs around to keep them under control. Our supply of ladybugs has been spotty this year.
In the synthetic control department, the Tree and Shrub Insect Drench from the folks at Ferti-Lome is top on the list. Application is simple, mix per instruction and water the plants. Again we are not spraying insect killers over our heads.