Crepe myrtle bark scale (CMBS) is a recently introduced exotic scale insect to the United States from Asia.Heavy infestations of this pest are detrimental to the aesthetic quality and tree health of crepe myrtle trees (Lagerstroemia spp.). Systemic pesticides, specifically neonicotinoids, are commonly applied to crepe myrtle trees to control for CMBS. These pesticides are a potential threat to pollinators and floral visitors as the insecticide has been found to translocate into the pollen of treated trees. In our studies, we evaluated biorational insecticides to explore potential alternatives to systemic insecticides such as neonicotinoids. The data analysis for the IR-4 project, surveying for effectiveness of provided biorational pesticides in a field setting are presented. In this trial, twelve treatments, including one control, were applied to crepe myrtle trees. These trees were surveyed for CMBS mortality, natural enemy presence, and growth index of trees across several time variables. Also summarized is a study which evaluated three biorational insecticides, limonene, azadirachtin (neem oil) and kaolin clay, for mortality effects on crape myrtle bark scale in a greenhouse setting. Results and further elaborations are to be discussed.
