Azalea Bark Scale
Egg - The egg is laid within the egg sac, occupying the void left by the female's shrinking body
Nymph- The tiny nymph hatches from the egg and ven- tures out of the egg sac. It soon penetrates the bark with its long, sucking mouthparts and begins to feed. The nymph is inconspicuous and practically free of any waxy covering.
Host Plants - The azalea bark scale has been found on four azalea species, rhododendron, "flowering cherry," and huckleberry
Damage - Since its discovery in 1881, the azalea bark scale has become recognized as a prominent pest of azaleas. Infested plants usually appear chlorotic and unthrifty. The bushes are often covered with sooty mold, a black fungus that grows in the honeydew excreted by the azalea bark scales as they feed. Eventually twigs may die back.
Life History - As the female azalea bark scale matures, it secretes white, waxy threads, which become felted or matted into a thick covering over its entire body. This covering is called the egg sac, where eggs are laid after mating. As the female lays eggs, its body shrivels gradually. A until the egg sac is almost completely filled with eggs. Eggs are laid in late April. They hatch in about 3 weeks. This new generation matures during the summer and produces eggs in September. Mature females tend to feed in crotches and on twigs. Adult males, two-winged and tiny, tend to feed on the leaves. Azalea bard scales overwinter as nymphs feeding on the bark.
Adult females and eggs are protected by the egg sac from virtually any pesticide. The key to control is treatment in late spring and late fall when the nymphs are present. For specific controls, see the current state extension service recommendations.