Many clients ask us how to protect trees from insects. The simple answer is that the cornerstone of an effective pest management strategy is healthy trees. In this post, Tri-State Tree Service, Pensacola’s tree health care specialists, talks more about how to reduce the risk of insect infestations.
Know the Types of Pests
Your first line of defense in identifying an infected tree is to know what the harmful insects look like and how they damage the tree. Regardless of species, these insects fall into one of the following three categories:
- Burrowing insects eat their way into the tree bark, burrowing deep into the tree and laying their eggs inside. They are harmful because of the damage they cause and also because they cut off the tree’s access to moisture and nutrients. They are challenging to eradicate because they hide deep inside the tree.
- Sucking insects drain the leaves and small twigs of nutrient-rich fluid. You will usually see signs of these deplorable creatures on the underside of the leaf, and they spread quickly. Sprays are generally effective if you use them early on.
- Defoliating insects chomp the leaves, buds, flowers, and fruit. They tend to be dormant in the colder months, springing back to life in spring when they can do the most damage. Proactive treatments are the best way to deal with these pests.
Protecting Your Trees
Inspect Your Trees Regularly
The next step in learning how to protect trees from insects is to recognize the symptoms of an issue. You should regularly check your trees for insects or the signs of their presence. These include:
- Small unexplained holes in the bark
- Leaf discoloration or unexplained drop
- Changes in foliage volume or size
- Abnormal growth patterns
If something looks amiss, contact a certified arborist immediately. If your tree receives the right treatment early enough, it will fully recovery. More importantly, you don’t risk infecting neighboring trees or your home.
Proper Watering and Nutrition
Ensuring your tree has the water and nutrients it needs will do much in the fight against insects. Dehydration or overwatering stress a tree, potentially causing it to lose bark or drop branches. Wounds in the tree bark put the tree at risk of insect damage, making it less able to recover.
Timely Tree Trimming
Professional tree trimming does more than improve the aesthetics of your landscape. It also removes dead limbs that can attract insects and facilitates better airflow. The increase in air and sunlight bolster tree health and keep insects at bay.
Contact the Experts Today!
Now that you know how to protect trees from insects and more about the signs of infestation, you are ready to learn about palm tree diseases in Florida. Equipped with this knowledge, you’ll know when it’s time to request expert assistance.
Do you want to get a head start? Contact Tri-State Tree Service at (850) 876 8003 today to schedule a tree inspection and prime your trees to better withstand insect attacks.
