Tree Aphid Formation, Issues Caused and Control Methods, Part 2

In part one of this two-part blog, we went over some of the initial information you need to know about aphids. A highly common and potentially destructive pest for both trees and other plants alike, aphids may begin to show their signs during the spring or early summer period depending on your precise tree species and other property factors.

At Reliable Tree Care, our tree disease control services include treatments for aphids, along with spidermites, scale and several other possible concerns. In today’s blog, we’ll dig into the adult aphid types you should be most concerned with, how to identify the presence of aphids on your property and in your trees, and how we’ll help you permanently treat these areas and prevent aphids from becoming a future concern.

tree aphid issues control

Winged Aphid Concerns

Aphid infestations often build in reverse order compared to other pest types – you’ll actually tend to see the adults, or winged aphids, before you see wingless aphids, or young. Aphid colonies start with these winged aphids, which in turn give way to offspring that continue the cycle.

Now, there are absolutely cases where you may see winged aphids along with a population of wingless ones. This is a big negative, signaling that the colony has outgrown the plant population in a given area. This is a common concern in greenhouses that don’t get enough attention, but can also take place in outdoor plant areas as well.

Aphid Identification

As a home or property owner, part of your responsibility here is to inspect your trees and other plants for potential infestations, including aphids. Some general tips when it comes to identifying aphid presence include:

  • Areas to look: Aphids often first begin to show up on or around growing tips and flower buds, so check here early on.
  • Color: Most aphid species are green, but they also appear in several other colors, including yellow, red, gray, blue or black.
  • Physical features: Aphids don’t all look the same, but most species have horn-like structures near the back of their abdomens. Most also have antennae that are swept back and tucked along the sides of their bodies.
  • Other visual signs: In many cases, the presence of cast skins or ants in plant areas or greenhouses signals the early stages of an aphid infestation.

Aphid Treatment and Prevention

Luckily, you have options at your disposal for both treating and preventing aphid infestations. Much of what we recommend here will depend on the specific species of aphid found in your trees or plants, but there are several pest control agents meant specifically for aphids. Our staff will direct you toward the best option, including informing you of aphids that might develop resistances to certain chemicals over time and what you can do about them. We’ll ensure your trees are treated for any aphid infestation without risking their health or growth in any way.

For more on how our certified arborists will assist you with aphids, disease control or any area of tree care, speak to the staff at Reliable Tree Care today.