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Aphids, Bees, and Other Springtime Pests to Look Out For

springtime pests

Spring is almost here, and with it comes an abundance of new growth and life. However, along with the beauty of spring also comes a host of springtime pests that can cause damage to your trees. As a tree care company, we like to educate our clients about the various pests that can harm trees so that they can take steps to protect them.

In this blog post, we’ll discuss some of the most common springtime pests to look out for and what you can do to prevent them from causing harm to your trees.

Aphids

Aphids are tiny, pear-shaped insects that can be found on the leaves and stems of trees. They are most commonly found on deciduous trees, but can also be found on conifers. Aphids feed on the sap of trees, which can cause the leaves to turn yellow and curl. They can also cause the tree to produce a sticky substance known as honeydew, which can attract other pests and lead to sooty mold growth on the leaves.

Prevention

To prevent aphids from causing damage to your trees, there are a few things you can do. One is to attract beneficial insects to your yard, such as ladybugs and lacewings, which will feed on aphids. Another is to use a strong stream of water to blast the aphids off of the tree, which can be effective for small infestations. For larger infestations, you may need to use a pesticide specifically labeled for aphid control.

Bees

Bees are important pollinators that are vital to the health of our environment. However, they can also be a nuisance when they decide to build a hive in or around your trees. Bees can cause damage to the tree by burrowing into it to create a hive, which can weaken the structure of the tree and make it more susceptible to disease and pests.

Prevention

To prevent bees from building a hive in your tree, there are a few things you can do. One is to keep an eye out for bees that are flying in and out of a hole in the tree. If you notice this, it’s important to call a professional beekeeper to remove the hive as soon as possible. Another is to keep trees trimmed and pruned so that bees do not have a place to build a hive.

Other Springtime Pests

There are a variety of other springtime pests to look out for, such as caterpillars, scale insects, and spider mites. Caterpillars can defoliate a tree and make it more susceptible to disease, while scale insects and spider mites can cause the tree to become stunted and weak.

Prevention

To prevent these pests from causing damage to your trees, it’s important to keep an eye out for any signs of infestation, such as holes in the leaves or discoloration. If you notice any signs of infestation, it’s important to contact a professional tree care company as soon as possible. They can help to identify the pest and determine the best course of action for treatment.

In conclusion, spring is a wonderful time of year for tree growth, but also a time when pests can cause significant damage. By being aware of the most common springtime pests and taking steps to prevent them from causing harm, you can ensure that your trees remain healthy and beautiful all season long.

If you notice any signs of infestation or damage, don’t hesitate to contact a professional tree care company for assistance.

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Be Prepared For Aphids!

Aphids

What are Aphids?

Aphids are small sap-sucking insects and members of the superfamily Aphidoidea that feed on green leafy plants. An aphid colony can destroy a garden, and unfortunately, they tend to attract colonies of ants.

Most aphids that cause problems early in the season will hatch from eggs in spring. Initially they stay on the plants where they hatched, but later in spring and summer you may see them moving to other plants.

That means in early spring, before bud break (usually in April/early May), is a great time to treat plants with our soil injection method containing a systemic insecticide. This application will provide season-long control of aphids and other insects that can damage your plants.

If you had problems with aphids last year, call us or contact us to get on the treatment schedule before overwintering aphids hatch.

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An Arborist’s 10 Best Tips for Controlling Fusarium Wilt

fusarium wilt

Fusarium wilt is a fungal disease that can infect a wide range of trees, including maple, oak, and elm. The fungus attacks the tree’s vascular system, which can cause wilting, yellowing, and eventual death of the tree. It is important to take steps to control this disease to keep your trees healthy and beautiful.

Here are the 10 best tips for controlling Fusarium wilt:

1. Proper Tree Selection

The first step in controlling Fusarium wilt is to select trees that are resistant to the fungus. Some species of trees, such as red maples, are more susceptible to the disease than others, such as sugar maples. When selecting new trees for your property, be sure to choose species that are known to be resistant to Fusarium wilt.

2. Proper Planting Techniques

Proper planting techniques can also help to prevent Fusarium wilt. When planting new trees, make sure to dig a hole that is at least twice as wide as the root ball and just as deep. This will give the roots room to spread out and establish themselves properly. Also, be sure to plant the tree at the same depth it was growing in the nursery.

3. Proper Watering

The fungus thrives in moist soil, so it is important to keep the soil around your trees well-drained. Water your trees deeply and infrequently, rather than shallowly and frequently. Also, make sure not to over-water, as this can lead to waterlogged soil.

4. Proper Pruning

The fungus can enter a tree through wounds, so it is important to minimize the number of wounds on your trees. Prune your trees during the dormant season, when the tree is less susceptible to infection. Also, be sure to sterilize your pruning tools before and after each cut to prevent the spread of the fungus.

5. Proper Fertilization

The fungus can weaken a tree, making it more susceptible to other diseases and pests. Fertilize your trees with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer to promote healthy growth.

6. Mulch

Mulch helps to retain moisture in the soil and suppress weed growth. Use a 2- to 3-inch layer of organic mulch around the base of your trees, being sure to keep it at least 6 inches away from the trunk.

7. Proper Drainage

The fungus thrives in moist soil, so it is important to ensure that the soil around your trees drains well. If you notice that water is pooling around the base of your trees, consider installing drainage systems such as French drains or swales.

8. Crop rotation

Crop rotation is a great way to prevent Fusarium wilt. The fungus can survive in the soil for several years, so rotating crops can help to break the life cycle of the fungus. If you have a vegetable or flower garden, rotate your crops each year to reduce the risk of Fusarium wilt.

9. Remove and destroy infected plants

Another way to prevent Fusarium wilt is to remove and destroy any infected plants. The fungus spreads easily through the soil, so it is important to remove any infected plants as soon as possible. If you notice signs of disease on your trees, contact an arborist for assistance in removing and disposing of the infected plant material.

10. Use fungicides

Finally, you can use fungicides to help control Fusarium wilt. Fungicides are chemicals that can prevent the growth of fungi and other plant diseases. However, it is important to note that fungicides should be used as a last resort, as they can be harmful to plants and the environment if misused. If you do decide to use fungicides, be sure to follow all label instructions carefully.

By following these steps, you can reduce the risk of Fusarium wilt on your trees and help keep them healthy and strong. Give Sexy Trees a call today to learn more about how we can help you protect your trees from this devastating disease. We offer expert advice and services that can help keep your trees healthy and happy for many years to come! Contact us today to get started.

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5 Biggest Spring Tree Care Mistakes: Plan Ahead This Winter

spring tree care

Spring is around the corner, and before we know it, the trees in our yards will be waking up. But how often do we stop to consider their well-being during winter? Tree care should happen all year round – not just in spring when leaves are budding or summer when they bloom. To keep your trees healthy and happy this coming season (and every season thereafter), make sure you’re paying attention to some common spring tree care mistakes that too many of us unintentionally make; there’s no better time than right now to plan ahead, so let’s dive into the biggest spring tree care mistakes and how you can avoid them!

1. Improper Planting

This tip is a preventative measure and makes all the difference in establishing a strong and healthy tree. When planting a new tree, follow the directions on the label of the specific type of tree you have purchased; each species has unique needs for sunlight, soil, water, and nutrients.

A few major planting mistakes we often see are:

  • Planting too close to buildings or power lines. Trees need room to grow and spread their branches.
  • Planting in an area that receives too much or not enough sunlight, water, and/or nutrients.
  • Failing to consider the future size of the tree when planting. It’s important to know that mature trees can grow to very large sizes and may need more space than what is available right now.
  • Suffocating the trunk flare with soil. This happens when too much soil is placed around the tree’s base.

2. Neglecting Pruning

Pruning is essential for maintaining an attractive and healthy tree. It’s important to remember that trees need to be pruned differently at different stages of their lives; for instance, young trees will require more frequent and lighter pruning than mature trees.

Pruning mistakes we often see include:

  • Using the wrong tools for the job and making improper cuts on branches. This can lead to the death of a branch or even the entire tree.
  • Pruning at the wrong time of year. Many trees should be pruned in late winter or early spring, but certain species may require a different timing for optimal results.
  • Failing to follow up with proper wound treatment. Pruning can leave wounds on trees that are vulnerable to infection and decay. Make sure you seal the wound correctly with a dressing or paint to protect your tree from further damage.

3. Poor Fertilization Practices

Fertilization is vital for providing trees with nutrients that may be missing from their soil, but too much of a good thing can quickly become a bad thing! Fertilizing mistakes we often see include:

  • Applying too much fertilizer, which can burn the tree’s roots and cause poor growth.
  • Using a fertilizer that is not suited for your tree type. Different species require different nutrients at different rates and cycles.
  • Failing to water the tree after fertilizing. Fertilizer should be applied with enough water to ensure that the nutrients make it down to the roots.

4. Improper Watering

Most trees require deep watering regularly, especially during the summer months when there is less rainfall. Common mistakes include:

  • Failing to water deeply enough for an extended period of time. In general, trees should be watered slowly and deeply for at least 30 minutes in order to ensure that the roots are receiving enough water.
  • Watering too much or too little. Too little water can cause stress or death to a tree, while too much can lead to problems such as root rot.
  • Failing to monitor soil moisture. If a tree is in an area that receives regular rainfall, it may not need to be watered at all; the best way to know for sure is to check the soil for signs of dryness before watering your tree.

5. Ignoring Pests and Diseases

Be proactive about checking your trees for pests and diseases. Various diseases and pests can affect trees, so it’s important to take the necessary steps to diagnose and treat any issue properly. Common mistakes include:

  • Failing to identify the pest or disease correctly. Different pests and diseases require different treatments, so it’s important to get an accurate diagnosis before taking action.
  • Misusing pesticides or other treatments. Pesticides and other treatments should be used in accordance with the label, as misusing them can lead to more harm than good.
  • Failing to monitor trees for signs of further damage after treatment. You may need to take additional steps if the problem persists or worsens despite your efforts.

Taking proper care of trees requires knowledge, vigilance, and effort. While these five common spring tree care mistakes are some of the most frequent issues we see, they’re certainly not the only ones. It’s essential to be aware of all potential spring tree care hazards in order to ensure your trees stay healthy and beautiful for years to come!

To schedule a consultation with an experienced arborist for spring tree care (or anything tree-related), you can reach us at 925-233-6877 or send an email by clicking here.

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Getting Ready for Spring: Tree Fertilizing Guide

tree fertilizing

In the midst of rainy days and cold weather, it’s easy to forget that spring is right around the corner. And that means that all the trees in your yard are gearing up for a new season of growth and beauty. While it may not look like much now – just hefty bundles of twigs and branches – what you’re really looking at is a goldmine of potential.

Proper tree fertilizing care can help make sure that your tree turns into its full-fledged former self. But if you don’t know your NPK from your magnesium sulfate, never fear! We put together this helpful guide to walk you through all the basics, so you get the most out of spring with your tree friends!

WHY Fertilize Trees?

Trees need nutrients just like we do to stay healthy and strong. Fertilizing can help replenish the tree’s existing stores of energy, making it easier for your tree to take in water, grow foliage and support its own ecosystem. A good fertilization plan will make sure that your tree gets the nutrients it needs throughout all four seasons.

Trees in the wild almost never show nutrient deficiency symptoms because of both natural nutrient recycling and the fact that plants only grow where they’re best adapted. Landscape plantings, on the other hand, are especially vulnerable to nutrient deficiency because of their artificial environment and the lack of natural nutrient recycling.

WHEN to Fertilize Trees?

Spring is the best time to fertilize your tree. That’s when the tree starts growing new foliage and needs additional energy for photosynthesis. Depending on what type of tree you have, you may want to fertilize twice during spring – once in early spring and again mid-spring.

HOW to Fertilize Trees?

The key to tree fertilizing success is finding the right balance. If you over-fertilize, you may end up burning your tree’s roots and leaves; if you under-fertilize, your tree won’t get enough nutrients. When in doubt, opt for a slow-release fertilizer that gives your tree a steady dose of nutrients throughout the season. If you’re going for liquid fertilizer, make sure to dilute it with water and apply it at least 6 inches away from the tree trunk.

WHAT are the best evidence-based fertilizers?

There are plenty of evidence-based tree fertilizers out there with the right combination of nutrients for your tree needs. A granular tree fertilizer is typically a good choice, as it’s easy to spread and lasts longer. You can also get tree fertilizers that are specially formulated for certain tree types (i.e. evergreens, deciduous trees). Whatever you choose, make sure to read the label and follow the instructions carefully.

Soil pH

Soil pH is measured using a logarithmic scale of 0 to 14, with 7 being neutral. Soils with a pH below 7 are acidic, and those above 7 are alkaline. Adjusting pH levels is important for three reasons:

  1. Specific plants grow best within a certain range of pH
  2. Soil pH affects the availability of both major and minor nutrient elements
  3. Soil pH influences the level of microbial activity in soils

It’s important to test your tree’s soil pH and adjust the levels as needed before fertilizing. Knowing the tree’s optimum nutrient range and soil pH will help you choose a tree fertilizer that best meets its specific needs.

Plant Nutrition

Besides carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen– which come from air and water– plants need 16 other minerals to grow. Of those minerals, nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) are required in the largest quantities. These three elements are referred to as macronutrients and are the primary ingredients in tree fertilizers.

Knowing & Using Nutrient Ratios

The ratio of N-P-K in tree fertilizer is an important part of tree nutrition. The ratio should be adjusted based on the tree’s specific needs, as well as the soil type and pH. Generally speaking, a tree fertilizer for deciduous trees should have slightly more nitrogen than phosphorus, while evergreen tree fertilizers should be higher in phosphorus than nitrogen.

Following these tree fertilizing tips can help make sure your tree gets the nutrients it needs for growth and health. With a good tree fertilizer plan and enough patience, you’ll have a thriving tree in no time!To schedule a consultation with an experienced arborist, you can reach us at 925-233-6877 or send an email by clicking here.

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Can You Replant a Christmas Tree?

can you replant a Christmas tree

If you’re like most people, you probably enjoy having a Christmas tree in your home during the holiday season. But what happens to the tree once the holidays are over? Can you replant a Christmas tree and keep it alive, or is it destined for the compost heap? The short answer is yes, you can replant your holiday tree. Whether or not it will thrive in the long run depends on the type of tree, the care you give it, and a pinch of luck. Read on for tips on how to care for your tree after the holiday season. 

Caring For Your Tree Over the Holidays

When the holiday season is over and it’s time to say goodbye to your live Christmas tree, there are a few things you can do to give it the best chance at survival. If you’re planning on replanting your tree, it’s important to keep the roots moist in order to promote new growth and prevent it from drying out. One thing to remember is that heaters are being run during the winter so your tree is more likely to dry out over the holidays. Don’t forget to water it!

can you replant a Christmas tree

Can You Replant a Christmas Tree? Yes!

Now that you know the answer to: “Can you replant a Christmas tree,” what comes next? When it comes time to replant your holiday tree, make sure you choose a spot far enough away from your home that gets plenty of sunlight and has well-drained soil to prevent root rot. Soil that doesn’t drain properly can suffocate a tree’s roots, or lead to fungal growth.

You’ll also want to dig a hole that’s deep enough to fully accommodate the roots of your tree. If you’re not sure how deep to dig, a good rule of thumb is to make the hole twice as wide as the roots of your tree, but no deeper than the root ball to the trunk flare. Make sure the tree sits slightly above the soil grade, too. Another tip is to break up the soil before planting and remove any weeds. You can also mix in some high-quality soil from your local garden store to give your tree the best chance at surviving. 

Common Tree Planting Mistakes

When it comes to replanting a Christmas tree, one of the most common mistakes people make is not properly preparing the planting site. The roots of your tree need room to spread out, so be sure to dig a hole that’s wide enough for it to stretch out. It’s also important to loosen the roots before planting and backfilling it with high-quality soil. This will help the roots establish themselves more quickly, and with less effort. 

Another mistake people make is not watering their new tree regularly, but this is less of a concern in the winter. Live Christmas trees need to be watered frequently, especially during the first few weeks after replanting, but this step won’t be as necessary during the rainy season. Be sure to check the soil around your tree regularly and water it whenever necessary.

Talk to an Arborist Today!

With proper care and a little luck, you can replant your Christmas tree and enjoy it for many years to come. Just remember to keep the roots moist if there isn’t any rain, plant it in a sunny spot, and give it plenty of room to grow. With a little TLC, your holiday tree will be a cherished part of your landscape for years to come.

For advice on tree care, or to schedule a consultation, give us a call at 925-233-6877. 

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How Mistletoe Grows & Other Facts About the Poisonous Plant

how mistletoe grows

Are you wondering how mistletoe grows? If you think you’ve spotted it on your property, it’s best to have a trained arborist inspect your trees. Why? Well, mistletoe is actually a parasitic plant that grows and feeds on the branches of trees, so it can do a lot of damage!

Read on to learn more about how mistletoe grows and other interesting facts about this strange plant we’ve come to associate with holiday kisses. 

How to Recognize Mistletoe in Your Trees

It’s easiest to spot this festive tree vampire in the winter when there are fewer leaves to conceal its presence. It looks like a green bundle with rounded leaves and white berries. In fact, mistletoe is an evergreen shrub that steals nutrients and water from host trees. Pay special attention if you have oak, maple or other hardwoods in your yard, as well as pine trees and various other conifers. 

Mistletoe in Your Trees

Blame it on the Birds

Birds are responsible for spreading mistletoe far and wide. The plant produces beautiful, white berries that are poisonous to humans, but a prized snack for our avian friends. The birds eat the berries and excrete the seeds on tree branches, where the mistletoe takes root and begins to grow, tapping into the tree’s branches.

What’s in a Name? 

Mistletoe gets its rather unflattering name from the Anglo-Saxon word misteltan, which means “dung twig.” The plant is also known as mislin-bush, kiss-and-go, and churchman’s greeting. The evergreen was actually venerated in Ancient Greece as a symbol of male virility, and can grow on over a hundred tree species. 

What’s With All the Kissing? 

Mistletoe has long been associated with winter solstice celebrations. Kissing under a sprig of mistletoe was supposed to bring love and luck, and maybe even marriage. Traditionally, after each kiss, a berry was removed until none were left.  

How Mistletoe Grows and Harms Trees

Because mistletoe is a parasitic plant that inserts its roots into the branches of your trees, it’s best to have it professionally removed as soon as possible. The more mistletoe spreads, the harder it becomes to save infected trees. Mistletoe is harmful to the tree it is growing on, as it steals water and nutrients from the host tree. In addition, mistletoe can also harbor insect pests and diseases. If you find mistletoe growing on a tree, it is best to remove it to prevent the infection from spreading. Mistletoe can be especially damaging to trees during droughts. 

All in all, mistletoe can be a serious threat to the health of your trees, so it’s important to have it removed by a professional arborist. Mistletoe can cause damage to the host tree by stunting its growth, too, weakening its structure, and even causing premature death. If you attempt to remove mistletoe yourself, you could cause more harm, despite your good intentions. It can also be dangerous work, since mistletoe can spread high into a tree’s branches, not to mention branches can be much heavier than they appear.

Mistletoe Removal

Now that you know how mistletoe grows, be sure to check out your yard for signs it’s stealing nutrients from your trees.  

To schedule a consultation with an experienced arborist, you can reach us at 925-233-6877 or send an email by clicking here.

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How to Set Newly Planted Trees Up for Success

planting new trees

You’re planting new trees, congratulations! You’ve decided to beautify your property and provide shade and shelter for many years. However, planting a tree is only the beginning – it’s essential to set your new tree up for success so it can thrive in its new home. This blog post will discuss some of the most common signs of transplant shock in newly planted trees, what you can do to help them recover, and what best sets them up for success.

Preventing Transplant Shock

You’ve seen it before: a beautiful, healthy tree that’s been recently transplanted, but within a few months or years, it starts to decline. The leaves turn yellow or brown, wilting and curling; the needles on evergreens discolor, and growth slows dramatically. This is called transplant shock, and unfortunately, it’s quite common.

You can do several things to prevent or minimize transplant shock in your newly planted trees:

  1. Be sure to choose the right tree for the planting site. This means considering the tree’s mature size, light and water requirements, and whether it’s appropriate for the climate.
  2. Prepare the planting hole properly. The planting hole should be twice as wide as the tree’s root ball and just deep enough so that the tree is at the same level it was in the nursery.
  3. Water your tree regularly and deeply. This is especially important during hot, dry weather. Newly planted trees need about an inch of water per week.
  4. Fertilize your tree correctly. Overfertilizing can do more harm than good, so be sure to follow the instructions on the fertilizer label.
  5. Protect your tree from damage. Be careful not to compact the soil around the root ball, and avoid using string or wire that could girdle the trunk.

Taking these steps gives your newly planted tree the best chance for a long and healthy life.

Planting New Trees: How to Set Them Up for Success

If you’ve recently planted a new tree on your property, you’re probably wondering how to best set it up for success. Here are our arborists’ best tips:

Plant at the Right Time

The best time to plant a tree is in the late fall when the weather is cool, and the ground is moist. This gives the tree a chance to establish itself before the stresses of hot weather and drought set in.

Watering Your New Tree

One of the most important things you can do for your newly planted tree is to water it regularly and deeply. Newly planted trees need about an inch of water per week, so check the soil around your tree weekly. If it feels dry several inches below the surface, it’s time to water. The best way to water your tree is with a soaker hose or drip irrigation system, which will help to avoid wetting the leaves and reduce the risk of fungal diseases.

Mulching

Mulch helps to conserve water, protect the roots from extreme temperatures, and prevent weeds from competing with your newly planted tree. Mulch should be applied in a ring around the tree, extending out to the drip line (the outer edge of the tree’s canopy). The mulch should be two to four inches deep, and keep it several inches away from the tree trunk.

Pruning

Pruning newly planted trees is generally unnecessary, but there are a few exceptions. If you see dead or damaged branches, you can remove them. Also, remove any suckers (shoots that grow from the tree’s base) that appear. Suckers compete with the tree for water and nutrients and can eventually weaken or damage the tree.

Contact a Certified Arborist

At Sexy Trees, our wide range of services and care will keep your trees healthy and beautiful for decades to come. We believe in supporting our communities of trees through evidence-based techniques that you can depend on. 

Call us at 925-233-6877 for an estimate, or email us at [email protected] anytime with questions!

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Crash Course in Tree Fertilizers: How to Choose the Best One

tree fertilizer

There are many misconceptions about tree fertilizers. Most people don’t realize that not all tree fertilizers are created equal – different trees and soil types will yield different results – and tree fertilizer isn’t the miracle-in-a-bag that will save your trees. This article will serve as a crash course in tree fertilizers – we’ll discuss how to choose the best one for your needs, as well as some of the benefits and drawbacks of different types!

Does it NEED Fertilizer?

Many established trees will never need fertilizer, while others will benefit from periodic applications. The best way to determine if your tree needs fertilizer is to have a soil test done. Most tree roots are relatively shallow, so even if the topsoil looks healthy, the tree may not be getting all of the nutrients it needs from just that layer. A simple soil test will tell you what nutrients are already present in the dirt and which ones may be lacking.

Other Signs Your Tree Might Benefit from Fertilizer

  • If your tree is newly planted or young
  • If your tree is showing signs of poor growth such as poorly colored, pale leaves, unusually small leaf size, earlier than normal fall coloring and leaf drop, little annual twig growth, or twig or branch dieback (Note: Heavily compacted soil or poor weather conditions can also cause these symptoms)
  • If your tree is planted in sandy soil with little organic matter
tree fertilizers

Types of Fertilizer

There are two main types of tree fertilizer: organic and inorganic.

Inorganic tree fertilizers are made with synthetic chemicals and can offer a quick-fix solution for nutrient deficiencies. However, they can also harm the environment if not used correctly, as they can easily leach into groundwater. Additionally, inorganic tree fertilizers can burn tree roots if misapplied.

On the other hand, organic tree fertilizers are made from natural materials such as manure, compost, and bone meal. They release nutrients slowly over time and are much less likely to cause root burn. However, they may not be as immediately effective as inorganic tree fertilizers.

The best tree fertilizer for you will ultimately depend on your specific tree and soil type, as well as your budget and goals. If you’re unsure where to start, we recommend talking to a local tree expert. They can help you determine which product will work best for your needs!

Choosing the Best Fertilizer for Your Trees

1. Do Your Research

Before you start shopping for tree fertilizer, it’s essential to do your research. Only some products are created equal, and the best tree fertilizer for your needs may not be the most popular or well-known brand. Start by reading the label carefully. The three numbers on a fertilizer bag (known as the N-P-K ratio) will tell you the product’s percentage of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. These are the three most important nutrients for tree growth.

Tree and shrub growth is more often limited by a nitrogen deficiency than by a lack of other elements. As a result, trees usually respond best to fertilizer with a 2-1-1 or a 3-1-1 ratio (nitrogen-phosphorus-potassium).

2. Fertilize Correctly

Once you’ve selected a fertilizer, following the application instructions carefully is important. Overfertilizing can be just as harmful as not fertilizing at all! Tree roots are sensitive to high concentrations of fertilizer, and, as we mentioned earlier, too much can cause root burn.

When applying tree fertilizer, always follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Talk to a tree care specialist if you need clarification on how much or how often to apply the product. They can help you create a fertilization schedule that meets your tree’s needs.

3. Consider Timing

The timing of your fertilizer application is also essential. Generally, it’s best to fertilize trees in the early spring before new growth begins. This gives the tree a chance to absorb the nutrients before it puts out fresh leaves and branches. However, there are some exceptions to this rule. If your tree shows signs of nutrient deficiency, you may need to fertilize it more than once a year.

And that’s it! With some research and careful planning, you can ensure that your trees get the nutrients they need to thrive. Just remember: more is not always better when it comes to tree fertilizer. A little goes a long way!

Related Reading: Fertilizer Root Injections to Support Tree Health

Contact a Bay Area Tree Care Specialist Today

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How to Identify and Get Rid of Elm Leaf Beetles

elm leaf beetle

Elm trees are a beautiful addition to any landscape. With their large, shady canopies and rounded green leaves, elms are a stately and elegant tree and very popular in North America. Unfortunately, elms are also the favorite food of the elm leaf beetle – and Sexy Trees has been seeing quite a lot of trees with elm leaf beetle infestations in recent months. These pesky insects can cause significant damage to elm trees if left untreated.

In this blog post, we will discuss how to identify elm leaf beetles and provide tips on how to get rid of them.

Identifying Elm Leaf Beetles

The elm leaf beetle feeds heavily on elm trees in both its adult and larval forms, so it’s essential to be able to identify this pest at every stage in its life cycle. Photos by Colorado State University.

Elm leaf beetle, with the yellow coloration of the form found during the growing season

Adult Beetles

Adult elm leaf beetles are yellow or olive-green and have a black stripe on each wing. They also have several dark spots behind their head. These beetles grow to about six millimeters or just under a quarter of an inch long.

Egg mass of an elm leaf beetle

Eggs

Elm leaf beetles commonly spend winter in sheds or other sheltered locations in cold climates. They emerge in the spring and deposit eggs in clusters of 15 to 20 on the undersides of leaves after feeding for a few weeks. These eggs are oblong and yellow and hatch seven to ten days later.

Late stage elm leaf beetle larvae

Larvae

The larvae are tiny and black with yellow stripes running down their backs. They mature in about four weeks and then pupate into adults. The entire life cycle from egg to adult takes about six to eight weeks.

Signs of Infestation

Elm leaf beetles typically infest elms that are already stressed or unhealthy. This is because these trees are more likely to produce a chemical that the beetles find attractive. Signs of elm leaf beetle infestation include:

  • Skeletonized leaves, with only the veins remaining
  • Holes in leaves
  • Stippling or mottling on leaves (this is caused by the larvae feeding)
  • Yellowing or browning of leaves
  • Premature defoliation

If you notice any of these signs on your elm trees, it’s time to take action. Keep reading to learn how to get rid of elm leaf beetles.

Getting Rid of Elm Leaf Beetles

You can use several methods to get rid of these elm-devouring pests.

Insecticides

You can use chemical insecticides, such as pyrethroids or neonicotinoids. These products should be applied when the beetles are actively feeding, typically from late spring to early fall. Be sure to follow the instructions on the label carefully, as these products can harm humans and animals if misused.

Natural Control Methods

Unfortunately, there are very few natural predators of the elm leaf beetle. Predators such as predaceous stink bugs and plant bugs may feed on the beetle in various stages of its life cycle, as may parasitic wasps. A fungus called Beauveria bassania may also kill these beetles in the pupae stage.

Related Reading: How Do I Know When a Tree is Sick?

Preventing Beetle Infestations

If you have elm trees on your property, the best way to prevent elm leaf beetle infestations is to keep your trees healthy. This means watering them regularly, fertilizing them as needed, and pruning them to remove dead or dying branches. Additionally, you can use physical barriers such as insect netting to prevent the beetles from accessing the tree’s delicate leaves.

If you suspect an elm leaf beetle infestation, the best course of action is to contact a professional pest control company. Our experts at Sexy Trees can help you get rid of these pesky pests and protect your elm trees from further damage.

Contact us today to learn more!