Will scale insects kill my mulberry?

A light infestation usually just weakens the tree, but a severe, untreated case can lead to branch death. It is best to treat them as soon as you spot them.

Can I use chemical sprays?

It is better to use horticultural oils or insecticidal soaps first. These are safer for the tree and the surrounding environment.

Mulberry: pests, causes and fixes

Check these first

Inspect the bark for small, stationary bumps.
Rub a bump to see if it feels waxy or comes off.
Check the leaves for sticky residue.

Likely causes

Scale insects
Most likely
How to tell: Look for small, raised, brown or white bumps that do not move but can be scraped off the bark. You might also notice sticky honeydew on the leaves below.
What to do: Scrub the branches gently with a soft brush and a mixture of water and mild dish soap. For larger infestations, apply horticultural oil during the dormant season to smother the insects.
Environmental stress
Possible
How to tell: The tree looks generally weak or has thinning foliage, making it more susceptible to pest attacks. Check if the tree is getting enough water during hot, dry spells.
What to do: Ensure the tree receives a deep watering every 7 to 14 days during the summer. A healthy, well hydrated tree is much better at resisting pest damage on its own.

Pests on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your mulberry

The list above covers the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at a photo of your actual plant and tells you the likely cause, how serious it is, and what to try first. Identification and a health check are free.

When to worry

You should worry if the tree shows significant branch dieback or if the infestation covers the entire trunk. A few insects are usually manageable, but a heavy colony needs immediate attention.

Stopping it coming back

Keep your mulberry healthy with regular deep watering and proper pruning to improve airflow. Healthy trees naturally repel most scale infestations.

Mulberry: pests? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your mulberry and Pocket Botanist tells you which cause is most likely, how serious it is, and what to try first. A few checks a day are free. Save the plant and you get care reminders timed for it.

Get the app · Or check it from a photo now, free

Questions people ask

Will scale insects kill my mulberry?: A light infestation usually just weakens the tree, but a severe, untreated case can lead to branch death. It is best to treat them as soon as you spot them.
Can I use chemical sprays?: It is better to use horticultural oils or insecticidal soaps first. These are safer for the tree and the surrounding environment.

Guides to these causes

Scale Insects

Why are there bumps on my mulberry tree branches?

Check these first

Not sure what's wrong with your mulberry?