Common Tree Pests and How to Spot Them
The sheer enormity of some tree species makes it easy to think they are indestructible. But there are hundreds of types of common tree pests that can do major damage to your flora if left unsupervised...
If the trees in your garden haven't looked their best recently, tree pests might be to blame. Some pests require a tree arborist's knowledge to be found, but others have common signs that even a novice gardener will be able to spot.
Read on to learn about the most common California tree pests and how you can spot them (before they do too much damage).
Aphids
Aphids or plantlice are soft-bodied insects that feed on the sap found in tree leaves and stems. They leave behind a sticky syrup known as honeydew.
You can spot an aphid infestation by finding stunted leaf growth, misshapen leaves, curling leaves, and yellowing foliage. Check the underside of leaves for pests and keep an eye out for sooty mold which thrives on honeydew.
California Oakworm
The Calfornia oakworm is a type of caterpillar that defoliates coast live oaks and is native to the Calfornia area. They can grow to around 1.2 inches in length, have a dark brown or red head, and have yellow stripes on their backs.
Healthy oaks will recover from complete defoliation caused by this pest. If the Calfornia oakworm gets hold of an unhealthy tree there can be lasting consequences, including lost limbs and increased susceptibility to other issues.
You can spot a California oakworm infestation by skeletal leaves or by spotting brown to gray moths by shaking lower limbs of the tree. At Maguire Tree Care, we inspect every tree on your property to ensure there aren't any oakworms hiding out and damaging your trees!
Emerald Ash Borer
The emerald ash borer is a type of beetle that feeds on the bark of ash trees. They are metallic green in color and can grow to 1/2 inch long.
Originally from Asia, this beetle is incredibly destructive in nature and has killed tens of millions of ash trees since their discovery in 2002.
The emerald ash borer leaves behind serpentine, S-shaped feeding galleries filled with sawdust and frass (powdery refuse left behind by boring insects) as well as D-shaped holes after the adult beetle emerges. The tree displays crown dieback and yellowing leaves.
Bark Beetles
Several species are found under the umbrella term "bark beetles", and they all work in similar manners.
These beetles affect hardwoods and conifers, transmitting disease-filled spores as they move between trees. These spores are the main concern when looking at the impact of the beetles!
You can spot a bark beetle infestation by finding white or brown pitch tubes (sap-like blobs) on the outside of a tree's bark. Conifers will also display red to brown needles spreading from the top down.
Don't Let Tree Pests Damage Your Plants
If you suspect your trees have any type of pest infestation, don't leave it to chance. Some pests can have devastating effects on your home's ecosystem that can take your trees years to recover from!
A Certified Arborist is able to tell you exactly what type of pest you're dealing with and how best to treat the issue and prevent future infestations. Contact us today if your trees are showing signs of tree pests and let us help you take control of the situation!