Summer oil as a dormant application is probably the most effective treatment for gloomy scale control. There are many brands of summer oils with various rates for dormant application. Use the highest rate on the label. The best time to treat for gloomy scale is in early spring as the buds are beginning to swell and scale development is resuming. Once the buds break in early spring, it is too late to apply summer oil at the dormant rate without the risk of significant damage to the tree.

DISCLAIMER: Recommendations for use of chemicals are included in this newsletter as a convenience to the reader. The use of brand names and any mention or listing of commercial products or services does not imply endorsement by the N.C. Cooperative Extension Service nor discrimination against similar products or services not mentioned. Individuals who use chemicals are responsible for ensuring that the intended use complies with current regulations and conforms to the product label. Be sure to obtain current information about usage and examine a current product label before applying any chemical.

Revised 2/16/2006.