Insects are detrimental to the health of your trees. From eating the leaves to boring into the trunk, their living habits reduce access to nutrients and cause gradual deterioration. Thankfully, with timely tree service, you can provide the proper level of protection and keep the issue from getting out of hand. Consider the following to verify the presence of an infestation.

4 Signs That Your Trees Have Insects

1. Visible Holes

Boring insects tend to attack trees that are beginning to show signs of stress, such as loss of foliage or internal disease. You can detect their presence by the bare patches along the trunk where the bark has fallen away. Check these areas for holes and look along the base for small piles of sawdust.

2. Leaf Damage

Moths and worms are among the top species that feed off of the greenery. Those that find a reliable source will lay their eggs on its branches to ensure sufficient nutrition.

Keep an eye out for yellow masses, and carefully remove them to prevent damage. If the leaves are showing signs of deterioration, then securing a tree service is the only way to stop the infestation in its tracks.

3. Leaking Sap

Sucking insects, such as aphids and whiteflies, will remain on the surface of the bark and use their needle-like mouthparts to penetrate into the wood.

If left alone, they’ll eventually draw out the sap and deprive the tree of its nutrients. Common indicators include sticky liquid along the trunk or leaves that are beginning to wither before the end of the season.

4. Silk Tents

Caterpillars are another type of insect that attacks the leaves. During their nesting season, you may notice large networks of webs appearing among the branches.

These contain multiple eggs and protect the larvae until they’re large enough to head out on their own. Total removal is the only way to prevent further damage.

If you suspect an issue, reach out to the experts at Rivertown Tree Service. They’re a locally-owned and –operated company in Hastings, MN, that provides quality tree services throughout the Minneapolis south metro and Hager City areas. Each arborist is highly trained and upholds industry safety standards for tree trimming and removal. They stay up to date with the latest tree care techniques and are fully licensed, bonded, and insured. Call (651) 438-3704 to request a quote or visit their website for additional information on their services.