Diagnosis
An examination can reveal damage caused by Diseases or Insects.
1. Identify the plant
2. Damage patterns
3. Check landscape conditions
4. Examine condition of roots, trunk, branches and leaves
Disease Types
Infectious, transmittable diseases caused by live agents, such as viruses, fungi and bacteria.
Non-infectious, non-transmittable diseases inherited from the environment, such as nutrient deficiencies, climate and vandalism.
Insects
While some insects pose no health threat, other insects can cause damage via feeding on the plant. In many cases, the insects are secondary to pre-existing problems caused by environmental stress or diseases. The primary types of insect damage are caused by chewing, sucking or boring. They can damage leaves, flowers, buds, roots, branches and bark.
Treatment
Treatment varies depending on the specific problem, species, extent of the damage, and local regulations. Once the problem has been identified, the appropriate product is injected into or sprayed on trees and shrubs to get rid of unwanted pests or diseases. These links provide additional information about the use of pesticides.
Identifying Harmful Insects
For a valuable resource to help identify insects that can threaten the health of your trees and shrubs, click below.
