Trees are an important part of our Gold Coast landscape. They provide habitats for many birds, animals and wildlife, as well as shade for our roads and parks, as well as adding property appeal to our homes. Unfortunately, trees can also be subject to pests that can cause significant damage if left untreated and unchecked. Our recent blog will discuss the top three tree pests found in Gold Coast areas and what you can do to protect our lovely trees.
How to Know if there’s a Tree Pest Infestation
One of the responsibilities of a tree owner is to regularly inspect and be on the lookout for tell-tale signs of pest infestation. Here are a few of them:
- Leaking sap
- Cracking and swelling on barks
- Chewing or damaged marks on leaves
- Cottony white masses
- Wilting and discoloured leaves
- Holes on leaves, bark or branches
- Discoloured bark
- White spots on twigs, branches and leaves
- Presence of sawdust near the tree
- If you notice any of these, contact us immediately.
Top 3 Tree Pests Found In Gold Coast
Termites
Termites require moisture to remain alive, which attracts them to moist and damp timber parts. They can reside in deadwood but will search for more sources of hydration when all moisture is gone. These critters love trees that are in good health. If left untreated, they will continue to look for food sources, causing massive harm and damage to the tree and even the surrounding properties.
Signs of a termite infestation may include a hollowing trunk, wood shavings, and termite wings at the tree’s base.
If you think you have termites, we recommend engaging a pest control service provider in your area for proper treatment. If the tree has been completely damaged beyond preservation, we can perform tree removal and then stump grinding to eliminate all of the timber from the garden. However, these tree services can only be performed when the termites have been completely treated and are dead. Removing trees with active termites will cause them to disperse and enter other areas of the home/garden.
Borers
Borers are the immature form of beetles and clearwing moths in their larval stage. These insects bore into wood to lay their eggs, resulting in larvae feeding on the tree’s living tissue, weakening its structure over time. Trees already in a state of stress are likely to be chosen by these pests, so it’s vital to ensure your trees are healthy to reduce the threat of borers.
Bracket Fungus or Brown Root Rot
Phellinus Noxius, commonly known as Brown Root Rot, is a tree pathogen that can cause roots to decay and rot. It can affect around 200 species of trees and is highly invasive, making it difficult to control.
Bracket Fungus is a visible fungus that attaches to the trunk or surface roots of trees and can appear like mushroom growth. Signs of this pest include wilting in younger trees, cinnamon brown rotting on the tree’s roots, and advanced stages of decay on the wood.
Tree Pests Found In Gold Coast: Have Them Treated Immediately
Trees are a valuable asset in the community, and as Gold Coast locals, we should always practise proper tree care. One way to do this is by being vigilant of the most common tree pests in Gold Coast.
At Clean Cut Tree Services, we have a team of highly trained Arborists who can provide the most appropriate course of action in the event of a tree pest infestation.
