At WillowStone, our tree and pest control experts are ready to assist you with a wide range of common invaders, from destructive Emerald Ash Borers to tiny aphids. Here are just a few of the common tree pests we can help you with.
Emerald Ash Borer: The EAB is considered one of the most destructive and invasive tree pests in Ontario, specifically targeting Ash trees.
- Reproduction: Adult beetles lay eggs in bark crevices.
- Behaviour: Larvae hatch and tunnel under the bark, feeding on the tree’s vascular system, disrupting the flow of water and nutrients.
- Threat Level: Severe. Untreated activity will eventually kill the tree.
- Spread: EAB often spread as property owners move infested wood around.
- Treatments: Injecting targeted insecticides into the trunk, applying soil treatments, removing heavily infested or dead ash trees, and avoiding transporting firewood from other properties or areas on your own property.
Aphids: These are extremely common in gardens and landscapes, but thankfully are rarely fatal to trees.
- Reproduction: Aphids reproduce quickly — often without mating.
- Behaviour: They feed by piercing leaves and stems and sucking out sap, and this process has the added detriment of producing a sticky residue that attracts other pests and promotes mould growth.
- Threat Level: Mild. Activity is rarely fatal to trees.
- Spread: They can be carried by the wind or introduced on new plant materials.
- Treatment: Encouraging natural predators like lady beetles and lacewings and applying insecticidal soaps or horticultural oils. Systemic treatments may be necessary for severe infestations.
Spongy (Gypsy) Moth: Invasive caterpillars that cause widespread defoliation in hardwood trees and are considered a public concern in Ontario.
- Reproduction: Females lay egg masses on trees, outdoor furniture, vehicles, and firewood.
- Behaviour: Hatchlings emerge in spring, climb into trees, and feed aggressively on leaves.
- Threat Level: Moderate to severe. Populations tend to surge every 7–10 years, and surge years can see considerable damage.
- Spread: Female moths lay egg masses containing hundreds or even thousands of eggs in late summer. Humans unknowingly transport items with egg masses, furthering their spread.
- Treatment: Pest control options include biological sprays when caterpillars are young, early insecticide treatments, and egg mass removal.
These are just a few key examples of common pests our team can help with. We also commonly treat Bronze Birch Borers, Eastern Tent Caterpillars, Leaf Hoppers, and Scale Insects. Contact us today to learn more about how our pest control services can help.