Preventing Pests and Diseases Before Summer Hits

As summer approaches with warmer weather so does the surge in tree pests and diseases. From sap sucking insects to damaging fungi, your trees can be targets if left unprotected from these common pests and diseases. In this post we will cover the types of pests and diseases that happen most during summer and how to prevent this. Early Prevention and Integrated Pest Management will be keys in helping defend your trees naturally and effectively. 

Pests such as; Aphids: Sap sucking insects which cause leaf distortion and damage to the tree.

Scale Insects: Will attach to branches and suck sap from the tree resulting in stunted growth and yellowing. 

Mites: Spider like pests which will cause damage and leaf discolouration. 

Beetles: Multiple species that will damage your trees by eating the bark, leaves or the wood. 

Gypsy Moth/Caterpillars: The moth’s larvae and or caterpillars will feed on the tree’s leaves.  

Diseases such as; Powdery Mildew: A type of fungal disease that will cause powdery, white coating on the tree’s leaves and stems. 

Leaf Scorch: Leaves turn brown and will dry out. Often because of disease or drought stress. 

Bacterial Leaf Scorch: Fatal Disease. This causes the leaf’s edges to scorch and die off. Which will lead to the tree’s decline.

Fungal Disease: Multiple types of fungal disease/infections. May cause leaf spotting, root rot, and cankers. 

Early Prevention: 

Prevention in the Spring will result in less infestation due to early action and detection. Trees will be more resilient if they’re healthy before the summer (stress season).  

Integrated Pest Management:

• Monitoring and identifying issues early (regular inspection, scouting and record keeping).

• Promoting natural predators (beneficial insects, biological pesticides).

• Cultural controls (watering, pruning, sanitation, mulching, soil health, and crop rotation).

• Targeted treatments when necessary (organic and or chemical).
  

Seasonal Tips for Pest & Disease Prevention

• Keep tools clean.

• Remove diseased branches from the tree. As soon as possible. 

• Choose disease resistant tree species when planting. 
  

Prevention will be the best practice when it comes to protecting your trees from pests and diseases. Learning how to recognize issues early on and using Integrated Pest Management Practices, will help keep your trees thriving and stress free this summer. Take some time out of your day this spring to care for your trees as the results will be beneficial. Stronger and healthier trees all season. 

Protect your trees from the effects of summer weather and harmful diseases. For expert assistance in detecting or preventing seasonal pests and diseases, contact us today!