Have you ever noticed little green bugs on your trees or shrubs? Don’t ignore them, as these little critters could be a sign of trouble brewing. If left untreated, these pesky bugs could do serious damage to your trees and plants, leading to expensive removal and replacement costs. In this blog post, we’ll be discussing the most common green bugs found on trees, including boxwood psyllids, aphids, and the infamous Emerald Ash Borer.
Boxwood psyllid
Photo credit: Nancy Gregory, University of Delaware, Bugwood.org
Boxwood psyllids are a pesky little green bug that is often found on boxwood shrubs. Signs of an infestation include cupped leaves and visible white secretions on the foliage. These insects lay their eggs on boxwood leaves and immature psyllids will feed on the leaves, leading to some foliar damage. If you notice signs of an infestation, consult your arborist or environmental specialist to gauge the severity. Typically, we do not recommend treatment for this pest as boxwood psyllid does not cause serious health issues unless the infestation is severe. If the infestation is severe, consider a horticultural oil treatment or pruning out damaged foliage.
Aphid
Photo credit: David Riley, University of Georgia, Bugwood.org
Aphids are tiny, soft-bodied insects that colonize on tree leaves and stems, feeding on their sap. They come in a range of colors, including green, brown, white, black, or pink, and their colonies can grow rapidly within days. If left untreated, aphids can cause severe damage to trees, leading to leaf curling, yellowing, and even death. You can prevent severe damage from aphids by practicing proper tree care techniques, such as regular pruning, mulching, and fertilization. If your aphid infestation has gotten out of hand, it’s time to call in reinforcements. RTEC Treecare offers an aphid treatment program to help combat serious infestations that are damaging your trees.
Emerald Ash Borer
The Emerald Ash Borer is an invasive pest that originated in Asia and has decimated Ash trees throughout the US in recent years. The adult Emerald Ash Borer is a small, metallic green beetle that lays in the crevices of ash tree bark. After hatching, the larva feeds on the inner bark of ash trees, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. The larvae eventually cut off the tree’s nutrient supply, leading to the tree’s death. Signs of Emerald Ash Borer damage include thinning leaves, dead or dying branches, and distinctive D-shaped exit holes.
Photo credit: Brian Sullivan, USDA APHIS PPQ, Bugwood.org
If you suspect your tree is infested with Emerald Ash Borers, don’t panic! There are treatments available that can help save your tree. However, it’s essential to act quickly, as the longer you wait, the more damage the beetles can do. Once an infested ash tree has reached a certain point of decline, it’s considered irreversible and removal is recommended before the tree becomes too brittle.
Click here to learn more about Emerald Ash Borer and RTEC’s treatment regimen.
Green bugs on trees can be a sign of trouble, but that doesn’t mean you have to panic. With proper care and swift action, you can save your trees and keep them healthy. It’s essential to keep an eye out for signs of infestation, regularly prune and fertilize your trees, and consult with a professional arborist if you suspect an issue. By doing so, you can keep your yard looking lush and green for years to come.
