Introduction
With fall’s arrival, certain pests become active, looking for food and shelter as winter approaches. Some of these pests can harm your trees by weakening their defenses before the colder months. Here’s how to recognize common fall pests and what you can do to manage them.
- Aphids
Aphids are tiny, pear-shaped insects that gather on leaves and stems, feeding on plant sap. They leave a sticky residue called honeydew, which attracts mold and can weaken the tree. If you see clusters of these small bugs or a sticky coating on leaves, you’re likely dealing with aphids. - Scale Insects
Scale insects latch onto branches and bark, often blending in as small, round bumps. They feed on the tree’s nutrients, causing yellowing leaves and, over time, stunted growth. Look for rough patches or discoloration on branches as signs of a scale infestation. - Caterpillars
Caterpillars, like the fall webworm, can cause visible damage to trees by chewing leaves and creating silky webs. Webbed branches or leaves with holes are signs that caterpillars are present. Pruning affected branches and introducing natural predators, like ladybugs or birds, can help keep caterpillar populations in check. - Borers
Borers are beetles that dig into the bark, disrupting the flow of water and nutrients in the tree. Look for small, round holes in the bark or sawdust-like material at the base. Left untreated, borers can compromise the structural integrity of the tree, especially in younger or weaker trees. - Spider Mites
Spider mites are small but can cause significant damage. They thrive in dry weather and can be identified by tiny specks on leaves or a bronze, dusty look to foliage. Spray the tree with water to dislodge them or use insecticidal soap if the infestation persists.
Prevention and Treatment Tips
- Prune Infested Branches: Trim back affected branches and dispose of them to prevent further spread.
- Encourage Natural Predators: Consider introducing beneficial insects, like ladybugs and lacewings, which naturally control pest populations.
- Use Horticultural Oil: Applying horticultural oil in late fall can suffocate overwintering pests, preventing them from returning in spring.
- Maintain Tree Health: Healthy trees are more resilient to pests, so keep up with watering, mulching, and any other seasonal maintenance.
Conclusion
Catching pest problems early in the fall can make a huge difference in the health of your trees come spring. By keeping an eye out for these common pests and taking action where needed, you can protect your trees from unnecessary damage. If you’re facing a serious infestation or need guidance, Environmental Advantage’s certified arborists can assess the situation and provide tailored solutions to keep your landscape healthy.
For more information or to schedule a consultation, visit Environmental Advantage.