Rhizosphaera Needle Cast – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Tree Diseases and Pests Glossary

What is Rhizosphaera Needle Cast? Rhizosphaera needle cast is a common fungal disease that affects coniferous trees, particularly spruce trees. The disease is caused by the fungus Rhizosphaera kalkhoffii, which infects the needles of the tree, leading to discoloration, premature needle drop, and ultimately, tree decline. Rhizosphaera needle cast is most prevalent in areas with … Read more

Witch’s Broom – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Tree Diseases and Pests Glossary

What is a Witch’s Broom? A Witch’s Broom is a deformity or growth abnormality that affects trees, causing clusters of small, densely packed branches to form on a single point of the tree’s main stem or branch. The resulting structure resembles a broom, hence the name. This abnormal growth can have negative effects on the … Read more

Ips Beetle – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Tree Diseases and Pests Glossary

What is an Ips Beetle? The Ips beetle, also known as the engraver beetle, is a type of bark beetle that belongs to the Scolytinae subfamily. These small beetles are known for their destructive behavior towards trees, particularly conifers such as pine, spruce, and fir. There are several species of Ips beetles, with the most … Read more

Lace Bugs – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Tree Diseases and Pests Glossary

What are Lace Bugs? Lace bugs are small insects that belong to the Tingidae family. They are named for the delicate lace-like patterns on their wings and bodies. Lace bugs are typically less than 1/4 inch long and have transparent wings with intricate veins. These insects are known for their piercing-sucking mouthparts, which they use … Read more

Tent Caterpillar – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Tree Diseases and Pests Glossary

What are tent caterpillars? Tent caterpillars are a group of moth larvae that construct silk tents or webs in the branches of trees. These caterpillars belong to the genus Malacosoma and are known for their gregarious behavior, with large numbers of caterpillars often congregating together in their tents. There are several species of tent caterpillars, … Read more

Tree Canker – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Tree Diseases and Pests Glossary

What is Tree Canker? Tree canker is a common plant disease that affects the bark, branches, and sometimes the trunk of trees. It is characterized by the formation of sunken, discolored areas on the tree’s surface, which can eventually lead to the death of the affected tree if left untreated. Cankers are caused by various … Read more

Eucalyptus Gall Wasp – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Tree Diseases and Pests Glossary

What is the Eucalyptus Gall Wasp? The Eucalyptus Gall Wasp, scientifically known as Leptocybe invasa, is a tiny insect that belongs to the family Eulophidae. This invasive species is native to Australia but has spread to various parts of the world, including Europe, Africa, Asia, and the Americas. The Eucalyptus Gall Wasp is a serious … Read more

Goldspotted Oak Borer – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Tree Diseases and Pests Glossary

What is the Goldspotted Oak Borer? The Goldspotted Oak Borer (GSOB), also known by its scientific name Agrilus auroguttatus, is a species of beetle native to southeastern Arizona and northern Mexico. It was first discovered in California in 2004, where it has since become a significant threat to oak trees in the region. The GSOB … Read more

European Elm Scale – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Tree Diseases and Pests Glossary

What is European Elm Scale? European Elm Scale, also known as Gossyparia spuria, is a type of scale insect that primarily infests elm trees. These tiny insects feed on the sap of elm trees, causing damage to the tree’s health and overall appearance. European Elm Scale is a common pest in Europe and North America, … Read more

Bacterial Leaf Scorch – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Tree Diseases and Pests Glossary

What is Bacterial Leaf Scorch? Bacterial Leaf Scorch is a plant disease caused by the bacterium Xylella fastidiosa. This bacterium infects the xylem vessels of plants, disrupting the flow of water and nutrients throughout the plant. Bacterial Leaf Scorch is commonly found in a variety of tree species, including oak, elm, sycamore, and maple. The … Read more