Our trees need protection from tree killing bugs. After all, trees can often times be much older than we are. But, certain bugs can create an infestation that kills the tree and could put your family risk. In this article, we will look at what tree killing bugs are and how to prevent them.
It’s hard to imagine a small bug destroying decades old oak trees, but it happens all the time. The fact is, trees can attract more dangerous bugs then your home. From termites to boring beetles, your tree could have a problem without your knowledge. Let’s look at common tree kill bugs in our area.
Expert pest control technicians can identify problems in and around your home. At Consolidated Pest Control, our lawn technicians can prepare your lawn for pest seasons. We can also keep your lawns gorgeous and lush all year. Give us a call!
Tree Killing Bugs
There are several species of insects that destroy trees. Although, some of them are only responsible for introducing diseases that ultimately kill the tree. Tree killing bugs are responsible for damage that compromises parts or all of the tree’s structure. Worse, these insects can cause damage that you may not see. Consequently, you could be walking under a tree that could be too dangerous to keep.
Here are three tree killing bugs we deal with in Florida.
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Pine Bark Beetles
There are a few different species of this beetle. The vary in size, from 1/16 in to 1/4 in when mature. Pine bark beetles attack the bark of dying pine trees. They create a ring of stripped bark as continue around the trunk eating the bark. As flying beetles, females travel from tree to tree attracting other beetles. She bores into the tree bark and lays her eggs, continuing the life cycle. Typically, pine bark beetles do not attack healthy pine trees. However, they carry a tree killing fungi that can block water from traveling up the trunk.
Infestations of pine bark beetles happen quickly. The best way to prevent these tree killing bugs is to remove unhealthy pine trees from your property. Tree trimming and pesticides may also be effective deterrents of these beetles.
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Asian Citrus Psyllid
This infamous tree killing bug is responsible for carrying the citrus-greening disease. With a brown body and black head, these insects can be hard to spot. They attack and feed on citrus trees causing them to drop fruit prematurely. Unfortunately, by the time you realize these bugs on your tree the damage is done. The Asian Citrus Psyllid introduces bacteria into the sap that paralyzes the tree. Citrus greening kills the tree, and there is no cure.
The only way to prevent these beetles is to treat for them. They’re persistent. A swarm can infect entire groves that have been alive decades.
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Red Bay Ambrosia Beetle
According to this article, the red bay ambrosia beetle are extreme tree killing bugs. These tiny insects feed on red bay laurels and swamp bays. A swarm travels through areas infecting trees with a deadly disease. Red bay ambrosia beetle is responsible for spreading laurel wilt disease which spreads quickly. There is no cure for the disease.
The only way to deal with this tree killing bug is to let it run its course. You can prevent spread by not carrying affected citrus from place to place.
Other insects such as termites, ants, aphids and spiders are able to be treated from both your home and business. If you need pest control services, we would love to help you today!
