How to Identify and Treat Common Tree Pests in Victoria, BC
3 common tree pests and how to treat them
- Aphids - Aphids are small insects that feed on sap. Aphids can affect trees and other plants. They typically appear to be green, black, brown, or grey in color and are about 1-3 mm in length. Aphids are normally found in clusters and can produce a sugary substance which attracts more pests. Follow these steps to prevent and treat an aphid infestation:
- Inspect trees and plants regularly. Signs of aphids include damaged or discoloured leaves, visible aphids on leaves.
- Prune branches to remove damage and aphids.
- Spray clusters of aphids with water to remove them.
- Apply insecticide if necessary. Follow application instructions provided on the bottle.
- Continue inspecting trees and plants regularly after removal.
- Caterpillars - Caterpillar infestations in Victoria BC are usually caused by tent caterpillars. Tent caterpillars typically affect trees but can affect other larger plants. Tent caterpillars usually appear to be black with yellow or white stripes. Tent caterpillars are generally 1-2.5 cm in length.
- Inspect trees and plants regularly. Tent caterpillar infestations are typically fairly easy to spot. Their webs appear large and silky.
- Prune branches to removed the infected areas.
- Apply insecticide if removal by pruning is not possible. Follow application instructions provided on the bottle.
- Hire a professional service to remove the infestation.
- Mites - Mites are very small insects that feed on sap. Mites can affect trees and other plants. They can be difficult to see and they are typically less than 1 mm in length. They can appear to be brown, red, white, or translucent. Mites can be identified by their webbing, damaged, or stippled leaves. Follow these steps to prevent and treat a mite infestation:
- Inspect trees and plants regularly. Signs of mites include damaged or stippled leaves, visible mites on leaves.
- Prune branches to remove damage and mites.
- Spray mites with a strong stream of water to remove them. This may not be effective for larger infestations.
- Apply insecticide if necessary. Follow application instructions provided on the bottle, or hire a professional service to apply insecticide.
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