Winter Moth, an invasive pest introduced from Europe and the Near East, causes severe defoliation of hardwood trees.  Winter Moth is appropriately named, as adult moths are generally active from November through January.  Winter Moth, which arrived in Massachusetts about 11 years ago, is more of a problem in southeastern Massachusetts, particularly on the Cape and islands, but [...]

Top 10 Winter Tree Care Tips: It’s important to evaluate trees for weaknesses that can be susceptible to winter weather. Here are ten winter tree care tips to help you prevent problems to trees and shrubs. • Remove fallen leaves from beneath disease susceptible trees and shrubs, (dogwoods, crabapples) • Prune disease infected limbs when dormant, eliminating further [...]

During cold winter months, trees are at the mercy of the weather and subjected to hazards that can harm trees and shrubs. Weather related tree injuries can be caused by extreme temperature changes, lack of water supply, chemicals in soil and water, and transplant shock and mechanical injury. Low Temperature Tree Injury: When a tree is [...]

Although it’s tempting to desire, a completely insect free yard would not be normal or healthy for your landscape!  A variety of microorganisms, pests, and insects are necessary for the balance of nature and overall tree health.  The key, is knowing when the naturally occurring insects and diseases begin to cause problems for your trees. [...]

Do your hemlocks have a grayish appearance?  Are they dropping needles, especially on the interior of the branches?  Then, you may have an infestation of hemlock woolly adelgid.  The hemlock woolly adelgid (Adelges tsugae), native to Asia, is a small, aphidlike insect that threatens tree health and sustainability of the Eastern hemlock and Carolina hemlock [...]

You may have noticed that the Lace Bug has been very active in our area the last several years and has negatively affected tree and plant health. The adults have highly ornamented wings and a hood-like structure covering the head. The entire surface is covered with veins that look like lace .The Lace Bug affects many [...]

Many trees in our area, especially the beautiful weeping cherry, were hit hard this winter by the winter moth insect. The winter moth is an insect pest that was introduced to North America from Europe. Its introduction has been known for years in various regions of eastern Canada.   Winter moth was introduced into the United [...]

Tree problems are often worse in winter. Maintaining good tree health is vital to the life of your trees. This season, winter throughout Massachusetts and Rhode Island has been especially challenging.  Extreme cold temperatures, ice and snow can take their toll on trees and shrubs. Proper tree care and maintenance can make a difference between [...]