BLOG Top 5 Tree Pests and How Professional Care Can Protect Your Yard Aug 02, 2025

As a homeowner, maintaining a lush and healthy yard often starts with taking care of your trees. These towering giants not only add beauty and value to your property but also contribute to the well-being of the environment. However, one of the biggest threats facing your trees is pests. At Brooks Tree Service, we understand the importance of protecting your yard from these invasive insects. In this article, we explore the top five tree pests and explain how professional care can safeguard your landscape.

Firstly, one of the most notorious tree pests is the emerald ash borer. This beetle, with its striking metallic green appearance, is infamous for its destructive nature. It specifically targets ash trees, burrowing into the bark and disrupting the tree's ability to transport water and nutrients. Professional intervention is crucial, as early detection and treatment with systemic insecticides can prevent widespread damage.

Another major pest is the Asian longhorned beetle. Known for its long black and white antennae, this pest poses a threat to a variety of hardwood trees, including maple, birch, and willow. The larvae tunnel deep into the tree, weakening the structural integrity and eventually leading to tree death. Professional tree care services can implement preventive measures such as regular inspections and, if necessary, bark injections to protect your trees from these beetles.

Third on the list are aphids, small, sap-sucking insects that can cause significant damage if left unchecked. They tend to congregate in large numbers, feeding on tree sap and excreting a sticky substance known as honeydew. This not only stresses the tree but also attracts other problems like soot mold. Engaging with a professional tree service can provide effective pest control solutions to manage aphid populations while ensuring the health of your trees.

The gypsy moth is another pest that can wreak havoc on your yard, especially during its larval stage. These caterpillars feed voraciously on the leaves of numerous tree species, leading to defoliation and stressing the trees. While a defoliated tree can often recover, repeated infestations can ultimately be fatal. Professional care involves monitoring and, if necessary, applying safe and effective sprays during critical stages of the gypsy moth lifecycle to mitigate damage.

Lastly, the pine beetle is notorious for its destruction of pine forests and can also be a problem in residential yards. These tiny pests bore into the bark and feed on the tree's cambium layer, disrupting nutrient flow and often leading to tree death. Professional care is vital, involving pheromone traps and preventive treatments to reduce the risk of infestation.

In conclusion, while tree pests pose a significant threat to the health and aesthetics of your yard, taking proactive measures through professional tree care services can make a world of difference. Regular inspections, early detection, and targeted treatments are essential strategies that professionals at Brooks Tree Service use to protect your trees from these harmful invaders. By investing in professional tree care, you are safeguarding your landscape, ensuring that your trees remain a source of pride and joy for years to come. Whether you are dealing with an existing infestation or looking to prevent future ones, professional tree care can help maintain the beauty and vitality of your property.