Even though winter slows down tree growth, it doesn’t stop pests from causing damage. Certain tree pests remain active during the colder months and can wreak havoc on your landscape. Here are five common tree pests to watch out for in winter and how to protect your trees.
1. Bark Beetles
Bark beetles bore into the bark of trees and can cause extensive damage if left unchecked. These pests are especially active in winter and target stressed or weakened trees.
Prevention:
- Keep trees healthy with proper watering and pruning.
- Remove and dispose of infested trees to prevent the spread of beetles.
2. Wood Borers
Wood-boring insects attack the trunk and branches of trees, causing structural damage that can lead to tree death. Like bark beetles, they often target trees that are already stressed or weakened.
Prevention:
- Inspect trees regularly for signs of infestation.
- Treat affected trees with insecticides or remove heavily infested trees.
3. Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny pests that feed on tree foliage, often during the winter months. They can cause yellowing leaves and weakened trees.
Prevention:
- Spray trees with dormant oil to suffocate mites.
- Keep trees well-watered and healthy to resist infestations.
4. Scale Insects
Scale insects suck sap from trees, weakening them over time. They often go unnoticed because they blend in with the bark, but their damage can be severe if left untreated.
Prevention:
- Apply dormant oil sprays to control scale insects in winter.
- Prune affected branches and dispose of them properly.
5. Aphids
Though less common in winter, aphids can still be a problem for evergreen trees. These pests feed on tree sap and can cause leaf distortion and weakened growth.
Prevention:
- Use insecticidal soap to control aphids.
- Keep trees healthy and monitor for early signs of infestation.
Conclusion
Winter pests can cause significant damage to your trees if not properly managed. For expert pest control services, contact Vitality Tree Care to help protect your trees from infestations this winter.
