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Top Ten Tree Problems
1. Pine Wilt: In
Kansas, the symptoms for pine wilt usually appear from August through December. In general, the trees wilt and die rapidly
within a short period of time. The needles turn yellow/brown and remain attached to the tree. The early stages of the disease
are subtle and may vary. The pinewood nematode is transmitted from pine to pine by a bark beetle, the pine sawyer (Monochamus
carolinensis).
2. Lace Bug: Lace bugs target broad-leaf evergreens such as andromeda, azalea,
and rhododendron. Early detection is the key to getting rid of an infestation. Look for yellow-silver stippling on the topsides
of leaves.
3. Mites: Mites pose a serious
threat a wide variety of plants, and can seriously impact the visual appearance of a plant. Mites favor warm, dry climates,
and are an extremely serious issue for many homeowners. 4.
Tent Caterpillars: Caterpillars can weaken many trees and shrubs, increasing the chance of a secondary infestation.
Look for silken, yellow cocoons.
5. Borers: Borers are attracted
to unhealthy trees, burrowing in and laying eggs inside the trunk. The best defense against borers it keep your trees healthy
and unstressed. 6. Scale Insects: These insects target
primarily hardwoods and conifers. Some signs of an infestation include abnormal leaf and shoot growth, yellow or red leaves,
and branch gouting.
7. Anthracnose Disease: This
fungal disease affects deciduous and flowering trees. Look for a spotting of foliage in spring and summer. 8. Winter Injury: Even during mild winters, evergreens can lose moisture and not
be able to replenish it. Thus, make sure your evergreens have sufficient soil moisture. 9.
Weevil Insects: Weevils are commonly found on flowers and fruits. Look for notches around the edge of leaves.
10. Aphid Insects: Aphids are small and
pearl shaped. An infestation can cause yellow discoloration and defoliation.
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