How to Deal with Tree Pests

Common tree pests in the UK include aphids, caterpillars, the horse chestnut leaf miner, the elm bark beetle and many more. The job of the tree surgeon often entails dealing with these pests through a process known as Integrated Pest Management or IPM. IPM combines various strategies to manage pests while minimising harm to the environment. In this guide, we'll look at how to deal with tree pests using IPM methodologies.

What is IPM?

IPM is a step-by-step methodology that entails:

  • Identification and assessment of pests: It's vital that tree pests are identified properly, as a misdiagnosis can lead to ineffective treatment. In order to identify the pest, the tree surgeon will look for things like discoloured leaves, sap leakage or holes in the bark.

  • Monitoring: The tree surgeon will conduct regular monitoring of the pest population to determine the most effective time for an intervention.

  • Pruning and deadwood removal: By removing dead or decaying branches, the tree surgeon limits breeding grounds for pests such as termites or wood-boring beetles.

  • Improvement of tree conditions: Thinning the canopy can improve air circulation and promote penetration of sunlight, which creates a less favourable environment for pests that thrive in moist conditions.

  • Stump grinding: Old stumps are a significant source of pests that feel safe in the stump. By grinding up any stumps on the property, the risk of future problems can be reduced.

Direct Interventions

When prevention methods are insufficient, the tree surgeon will often use direct control methods, including:

  • Physical controls: Including handpicking of pests for minor infestations or flushing out boring sawdust from cavities.

  • Chemical controls: When other control methods fall short, tree surgeons may turn to chemical controls, including pesticides, fungicides and bactericides. These can be sprayed directly on the affected area, injected into the soil and absorbed by the roots or injected into the tree's vascular system.

  • Biological controls: In limited instances, the tree surgeon may introduce natural predators such as ladybugs and nematodes to control pest populations.

Conclusion

To learn more about how to deal with tree pests, contact the DTE academy by calling 01959 524 623.

 
 
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