Hi all English box does anyone know what this pest is killing my hedge , please

[Misbeth]

Hi
Does anyone know what this on my box hedge please ?

 

[Oliver Buckle]

Looks like early stages of box blight, the only other real problem it has is box moth caterpillar which gather in groups and wind silk around themselves, quite distinct. Here's what the RHS says,

Box blight: managing outbreaks / RHS

Finding box blight (<em>Calonectria pseudonaviculata</em> and <em>C. henricotiae</em>) in your garden is what you hope to avoid but, despite your best efforts, it may arrive and create havoc with your box plants. If it does, this action plan should help with managing the outbreak.

www.rhs.org.uk

 

[Misbeth]

Hello
Thank you for replying much appreciated . I always get winter burn here in Victoria Australia which has been mistaken for blight years ago in the same hedges .
They are re shooting everywhere going absolutely crazy with new growth . Is that definitely caterpillar ? If so how would I treat caterpillar please ?
Thank you
Elizabeth .

 

[Plantove]

It looks like your box hedge is infested with scale insects, specifically armored scales. These insects attach themselves to the leaves and stems, appearing as small, circular or oval, shell-like bumps (which you can see in your photos).

Scale insects feed on plant sap, which can weaken your plant over time, causing yellowing, stunted growth, and potentially even death if left untreated. Here's what you can do:

1. Manual Removal: If the infestation is mild, you can try to remove the scales by hand using a soft brush or a cloth.
2. Insecticidal Soap: Spray the plant with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. This can suffocate the insects without harming the plant.
3. Pruning: Trim heavily infested branches to prevent the scales from spreading further.
4. Natural Predators: Introducing ladybugs or parasitic wasps can help control the scale population naturally.

If you're unsure or the infestation is severe, it might be a good idea to consult a local garden expert for specific advice.

 

[Oliver Buckle]

Hello
Thank you for replying much appreciated . I always get winter burn here in Victoria Australia which has been mistaken for blight years ago in the same hedges .
They are re shooting everywhere going absolutely crazy with new growth . Is that definitely caterpillar ? If so how would I treat caterpillar please ?
Thank you
Elizabeth .

Sorry, a misunderstanding. I thought box blight because the only other common disease I know of in box plants is box moth, and it doesn't look like that, no caterpillars in congregated with silk around them.

 

[cpp gardener]

A systemic insecticide is the fastest most thorough control for scale insects.