Healthy trees can add a great deal of beauty and value to your property, but they require maintenance to remain in good condition. An essential part of tree care is pest control. While some insects are harmless, certain species can cause significant damage if not addressed quickly, so use these tips to avoid infestations. 

3 Tips for Preventing Pest Infestations in Your Trees

1. Learn Which Insects Are Problematic

It’s a good idea to inspect your trees regularly for pests and signs of damage. However, before you can determine whether or not they’re at risk, you must know which insects to watch for.

Those considered destructive typically fall into three categories: boring or tunneling, chewing, and sucking.

Wood borers burrow into the limbs, stems, and root systems and can keep trees from getting the nutrition and moisture they need to survive.

Chewing insects attack the foliage of trees, making them weak and more susceptible to disease.

Sucking insects draw out the nutrients from leaves and twigs, depleting trees of their nutrition.

2. Grow Healthy Trees

Strong and vigorous trees are in a much better position to fight off pests than those that are weak and diseased. To grow healthy trees, you want to ensure they’re planted in nutrient-rich soil with a good drainage system. Too much moisture around your trees will provide an inviting environment for insects.

Proper tree care also includes mulching and fertilizing as needed and protecting the roots from the weight of cars or large machinery.

3. Practice Preventive Maintenance  

Have your trees pruned often to encourage adequate air circulation and deter insects. A professional tree care service will know the correct pruning season and technique for your type of trees. 

It’s also important to minimize weed growth and keep the area beneath trees clear of decaying fruit, fallen leaves, and other debris that offer a place to nest.

 

For help maintaining vigorous trees, turn to Carlos Tree Service in Anchorage, AK. Since 1993, they’ve provided homes and businesses with high-quality tree care solutions. Their professional arborists will advise you on a suitable prevention plan to keep trees pest-free or recommend the best course of action to take if you’re already dealing with an infestation. Call (907) 522-6049 to schedule an appointment, or visit their website for more information about their services.