Pest identification
What's eating my kousa dogwood?
Dogwood Borer (Synanthedon scitula)
Signs: Frass and bark cracking at the trunk base; gradual branch dieback from larval tunneling
Control: Protect bark from mechanical wounds; apply preventive permethrin to trunk in spring
Scale
Signs: Encrusted gray or brown bumps on bark; honeydew and reduced vigor
Control: Horticultural oil in dormant season; targeted systemic if widespread
Aphids
Signs: Sticky, curled new growth in spring; sooty mold develops on honeydew
Control: Strong water spray or insecticidal soap; populations usually crash naturally by summer
Keep kousa dogwood pest-free
Healthy plants resist pests best. Get the basics right:
Kousa Dogwood pests — FAQ
What is eating my kousa dogwood?
Kousa Dogwood is notably more resistant to anthracnose and many pests than native Cornus florida, but the Dogwood Borer can still attack. Scale insects and aphids are occasional. Birds eat the fruit without harming the tree. Its tougher constitution means fewer pest crises, but borer vigilance is still worthwhile.
How do I get rid of dogwood borer (synanthedon scitula) on kousa dogwood?
Frass and bark cracking at the trunk base; gradual branch dieback from larval tunneling Protect bark from mechanical wounds; apply preventive permethrin to trunk in spring
How do I get rid of scale on kousa dogwood?
Encrusted gray or brown bumps on bark; honeydew and reduced vigor Horticultural oil in dormant season; targeted systemic if widespread
How do I get rid of aphids on kousa dogwood?
Sticky, curled new growth in spring; sooty mold develops on honeydew Strong water spray or insecticidal soap; populations usually crash naturally by summer