Lace Bugs Treatment Fort Worth, TX.
The Main Causes of Lace BugsLace bugs (known by certified arborists as their scientific name Corythuca ciliate) are more of a nuisance rather than a destroyer of trees; however, their damage is visually unpleasant and if left uncontrolled their invasion can ultimately lead to the death of the tree. These tiny insect pests range between 1/8 to 1/4 inch in length and appear as if they're flattened and have translucent, delicate wings that resemble lace. |
These residential landscape pests are fond of many trees and plants that are commonly seen within the DFW metroplex including sycamore, ash, willow, poplar, birch and hickory trees. Adult lace bugs spend the winter hidden in bark crevices and eggs endure winter hiding in leaf veins until they make their appearance known in spring. They multiply rapidly and can produce as many as five generations annually. For this reason, it is imperative to contact an experienced tree care company immediately if you notice these odd-looking insects or observe your tree's beauty is declining.
The Diagnostics of Lace Bugs
Diagnostic evaluation is swift for an experienced plant pathologist because they are highly familiar with the lace bug species common within the North Texas area and the many indications thereof. Initial signs are an overall sickly appearance of the tree in question and drooping, sagging leaves that are speckled with white, yellowish and sometimes brown discolorations on the top side of the foliage.
The Fort Worth arbor care professional will examine the underside of leaves for black spots and lace bug occupation. This leaf damage is due to the fact that lace bugs drink the nutritional fluids from the leaves that the tree is dependent on. Tree bark samples will be examined for hidden adult lace bugs.
The residential outdoor environment will be thoroughly studied and the health and vigor of all trees will be evaluated, as lace bugs initially target weakened trees and plants. Upon positive confirmation of lace bug invasion, the certified arborist will prepare and present a diagnosis report and a personalized treatment plan and necessary continual maintenance program.
Procedures to Treating Lace Bugs
Professional removal of severely infested trees and any twigs scattered foliage and ground waste is necessary in order to reduce the desired hosts that lace bugs reproduce and feed upon. Regular sanitized tree pruning of infected leaves and twigs by a tree trimming service is important to remove any lace bug larvae and prevent reproduction and increased infestation.
Insecticides are successful in reducing and eliminating lace bugs; however, application techniques must be professionally administered and monitored by an arborist that treats sick trees. Application of insecticides is best by systemic microinjections, soil drenching, and trunk injections because general spraying of the outdoor habitat could result in killing highly-desirable ladybugs which are natural predators of lace bugs. Maintaining optimum health of the trees is always one of the most successful forms of defense and the best Fort Worth arborist will oversee the needs of your outdoor residential environment and ensure that your trees and grounds are beautiful and healthy for many years to come!