Some pests cause cosmetic damage, while others destroy trees from the inside out. The best approach in either case involves comprehensive treatments that resolve current infestations while preventing future ones. As a licensed tree service contractor in Norman, OK, our team at Arbor Image Tree Care can show you how to protect trees from insects and pests.
Common Tree Pests in Norman, Oklahoma
Insects, rodents, and other critters may roost and thrive in various trees. The pests on your trees typically depend on where you live. Some native to Norman, Oklahoma, include:
- Beetles: Japanese beetles, Asian longhorn beetles, and other beetle species feast on tree tissues, making the specimen’s growth and hard work for nothing.
- Winged insects: European cherry fruit flies and European grapevine moths attack fruit-bearing trees and vines, consuming the fruit and ruining crops.
- Worms: Bagworms and grubworms work at opposite ends of the tree. The bagworm feasts on foliage, while grubs can damage the roots.
How To Protect Trees From Insects and Pests
Modern tree insect repellents come in various forms. In other words, you have numerous options when choosing what’s best for your whole property. An arborist can show you how to protect trees from insects using one of the following solutions.
Consistent Care and Maintenance
The best solution for many concerns is prevention. Regular tree care offers natural pest control that makes specimens less hospitable to pests by strengthening their defenses. Each year, remember to schedule:
- Pruning and trimming
- Soil analysis
- Fertilization
Deep weekly waterings, especially for newly transplanted specimens, can also improve overall tree health.
Biological Pest Control
Biological pest control means harnessing nature’s weapons to balance the nearby pest population. In other words, you might avoid harsh chemicals by releasing other native insects known for eating or competing with harmful ones.
For example, you might have an aphid infestation on your hands. Releasing or making the environment attractive to ladybugs would quickly diminish the aphid population.
Insecticides and Repellents
Tree insecticides can be powerful tools when combatting active or progressive infestations. Many modern insecticide approaches can protect weakened trees while minimizing harm to helpful insects. For example, tree injections make the specimen’s tissues less appealing and even toxic for certain pesky insects.
Insect-resistant tree treatments won’t outright kill the pests, but they will make the treated specimens inhospitable. Lime coatings cover tree trunks with lime minerals, which prevent boring insects from infiltrating the trunks.
Integrated Pest Management
Finally, integrated pest management (IPM) offers a comprehensive approach to multiple pest species. Your arborist will strategically choose multiple repellents and insecticides based on the tree’s health and needs. Chemical, biological, and physical management methods heal currently-infested trees while preventing the insects from moving to healthy, uninfested ones.
Protect Your Trees With Help From Arbor Image Tree Care in Norman, OK
Our team at Arbor Image Tree Care knows how to protect trees from insects and other pests in Norman, OK. Contact us to schedule an evaluation of your property by calling 405-815-7959. We will diagnose the pestilence and help you choose the best treatment course for all your specimens.