Most insects feed and live in tree branches, trunks, shrubs, and tree barks. They either eat away the sap in the stems and leaves of trees, lay masses of eggs in the tree trunks, or suck the nutrients from the leaves and twigs. The end result? Stunted tree growth, stripped leaves, falling branches, and even tree death.
But, with various insects living on and around trees, do you know which types of tree bugs are making a mess in the trees in your area? While it is said that tree damage is caused by 22 common tree bugs, some of these bugs may be more prevalent in one area than others. In Massachusetts, for instance, gypsy moths and emerald ash borers are two of the most notable bugs wreaking havoc on the trees in the area.
Do you know what other types of common bugs in Massachusetts to watch out for? Below is a rundown of their names, descriptions, and the kind of tree damage they bring.
Common Bugs in Massachusetts
1. Hemlock Woolly Adelgid
ots. It feeds on sap with its piercing-sucking mouth, burrowing deep into the tree’s tissue and draining the life out of it. So, if you notice hairy, white pods forming on your hemlock, immediately consult with experienced local arborists for help in treating your trees.
2. Winter Moth
Winter moths are small insects that like to target oaks, maples, and apple trees. Other plants that they like to attack include cherry, basswood, blueberry, crabapple, ash, and white elm. Adult moths are usually seen on trees in the month of November and can remain active until January. Female moths lay egg clusters on tree branches and under bark after mating. When the larvae reach maturity, they will begin to munch their way through the bud scales and scrape the plant’s leaf tissue, creating holes in the leaves before they can fully expand.
3. Asian Longhorn Beetle
Another type of tree bug infamous for causing immense tree damage in Massachusetts is the Asian Longhorned Beetle, also known as the Starry Sky Beetle. It was first found in Brooklyn, New York,in 1996 but has now been reported in 14 states and is threatening more. These insects feed on leaf stalks and twigs of hardwood trees, particularly maples. Yellow or drooping leaves and sawdust buildup are two possible indications of Longhorned Beetle infestation. You can only imagine the damage they can do to your trees.
What Green Tech Tree Service Company Can Do!
As a tree owner, you can do so much more to keep common tree bugs from wreaking havoc on your rich greenery. One solution is to get help from a professional tree care service company near your area. Not only do they know how to get rid of all types of tree bugs, but they also provide complete tree care services to promote the healthy growth of trees and maintain their elegant shape.
In Massachusetts, Green Tech Tree Care Service Company can provide you with all the essential services needed to fully protect trees from all sorts of pest infestation. Whether you live in a residential or commercial building, our skilled arborists at Green Tech have extensive knowledge and experience in all aspects of tree care maintenance.
We serve the communities of Braintree, Bridgewater, Brockton, Holbrook, Quincy, Rockland, Weymouth, and many others on the South Shore. If you are in these areas, feel free to contact us at 781-767-388 and get a free estimate of our tree care services!