4 Common Pests That Can Harm Your Trees

Mar 28, 2025

Trees are a vital part of our landscapes, providing shade, beauty, and environmental benefits. However, they are also susceptible to various pests that can cause significant damage and even lead to their demise. Understanding these common threats is crucial for maintaining the health and longevity of your trees. At Rolling Green, serving Southern and Northern California, we’ve encountered numerous pest infestations and understand the importance of early detection and effective treatment. With our 25+ years of experience, we provide expert advice and services to protect your trees from these harmful invaders.

  1. Aphids: The Silent Sap Suckers

Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on the sap of trees, causing damage to leaves, stems, and buds. They can cause leaves to curl, yellow, and drop prematurely. Aphids also secrete honeydew, a sticky substance that can lead to the growth of sooty mold, further damaging the tree.

In California, where diverse tree species thrive, aphids can be a persistent problem. Our team at Rolling Green can identify aphid infestations early and provide effective treatment options, including natural and chemical solutions, to protect your trees. We understand the local ecosystem and can offer eco-friendly approaches when possible.

  1. Bark Beetles: The Internal Destroyers

Bark beetles are small insects that bore into the bark of trees, disrupting the flow of water and nutrients. They can cause significant damage and even kill trees, especially those that are stressed or weakened. Signs of bark beetle infestation include small holes in the bark, sawdust accumulation, and wilting foliage.

California’s diverse climate and forests make it a hotspot for various bark beetle species. Rolling Green’s experts are well-versed in identifying and treating bark beetle infestations. We use targeted treatments to eliminate these pests and protect your trees from further damage. We can also provide tree health assessments to identify trees at risk.

  1. Spider Mites: The Tiny Leaf Devourers

Spider mites are tiny arachnids that feed on the leaves of trees, causing them to become discolored and speckled. They can cause significant damage, especially during hot, dry periods. Spider mites are difficult to see with the naked eye, making early detection challenging.

In California’s dry summers, spider mites can proliferate rapidly. Rolling Green’s professionals are trained to identify spider mite infestations and provide effective control measures. We use safe and effective treatments to protect your trees and prevent further damage.

  1. Caterpillars: The Voracious Leaf Eaters

Caterpillars are the larval stage of moths and butterflies. While some species are harmless, others can cause significant damage to trees by defoliating them. They can strip leaves, weaken trees, and make them more susceptible to disease and other pests.

California’s diverse flora supports a wide range of caterpillar species. Rolling Green can identify harmful caterpillars and provide targeted treatments to protect your trees. We understand the local ecology and can offer integrated pest management strategies that minimize environmental impact.

The Importance of Early Detection and Professional Care

Early detection is crucial for preventing significant damage from tree pests. Regular inspections and monitoring can help identify infestations before they become severe. Professional tree service companies like Rolling Green have the expertise and tools to diagnose and treat pest problems effectively.

Our team of certified professionals is dedicated to protecting the health and beauty of your trees. We offer comprehensive pest management services, including preventative treatments, targeted interventions, and ongoing monitoring. We understand the unique challenges faced by trees in California and provide tailored solutions to ensure their long-term health. We are committed to the health of your local trees.

FOLLOW US

Line

4 Common Pests That Can Harm Your Trees

Trees are a vital part of our landscapes, providing shade, beauty, and environmental benefits. However, they are also susceptible to various pests that can cause significant damage and even lead to their demise. Understanding these common threats is crucial for...

What is Tree Crown Thinning?

Tree crown thinning is a specialized pruning technique that involves the selective removal of branches within a tree’s crown. Unlike tree topping, which is widely considered harmful, crown thinning is a method designed to enhance the health, structure, and aesthetics...

How to Get More Light in Your Garden

A garden bathed in sunlight is a vibrant, thriving space. However, many homeowners struggle with limited light, especially in areas shaded by buildings, trees, or fences. In California, where sunshine is abundant, maximizing the available light can significantly...

Things You Need to Consider When Choosing a Tree Service Company

When you’re looking to maintain or manage the trees on your property, selecting the right tree service company is paramount. It’s not just about getting the job done; it’s about ensuring it's done safely, efficiently, and with the long-term health of your trees in...

What Is Tree Topping and Why Topping Is Harmful to Trees

Tree topping is a pruning technique where the top of a tree is drastically cut back, removing large portions of the crown and branches. While it may seem like a quick solution to reduce a tree's height or spread, it’s a practice that's widely considered harmful and...

How Can You Reduce the Height of a Tree?

Trees, while majestic and beneficial, can sometimes outgrow their space, posing safety hazards or obstructing views. When this happens, reducing their height becomes necessary. However, it’s a task that requires careful planning and expert execution. At Rolling Green,...

How to Burn Out a Stump: A Practical Guide for California Homeowners

Dealing with an unwanted tree stump can be a real headache. It's not just an eyesore; it can also be a tripping hazard and a breeding ground for pests. While there are various methods for stump removal, burning is a time-honored technique that can be quite effective....

Understanding Tree Roots: The Hidden Life Beneath Your Trees

Trees grace our landscapes with beauty, shade, and environmental benefits, but much of their remarkable structure remains hidden beneath the soil. The root system—comprising as much as 20-25% of a tree's total mass—performs crucial functions that sustain tree health...

How Girdling Roots Threaten Your Trees: What You Need To Know

Girdling roots are a silent threat to the health and stability of trees, often going unnoticed until significant damage has occurred. Especially in our diverse California landscapes, from the sprawling urban areas to the serene natural environments served by Rolling...

Tree Cracks: 3 Reasons They Happen and What You Can Do

Trees, despite their sturdy appearance, are vulnerable to cracking, which can be a sign of underlying stress or damage. Understanding why these cracks appear is crucial for maintaining the health and longevity of your trees, especially in California's diverse...