Tree Pests

Common tree pests found in Southeastern PA, including Reading, include:

1. Spotted Lanternfly: An invasive species that feeds on the sap of trees, leading to wilting, leaf curling, and tree decline.
2. Emerald Ash Borer (EAB): A destructive beetle that attacks ash trees, causing canopy dieback and tree death.
3. Gypsy Moth: Caterpillars that defoliate trees, especially oaks, leading to stress and potential tree death.
4. Japanese Beetle: Feeds on leaves, flowers, and fruits of many trees, causing aesthetic damage and weakening trees.
5. Hemlock Woolly Adelgid: Affects hemlock trees, feeding on sap and causing needle loss and branch dieback.
6. Scale Insects: Small insects that feed on tree sap, causing yellowing of leaves and branch dieback.
7. Eastern Tent Caterpillar: Caterpillars that create silk tents in trees, feeding on leaves and weakening the tree.
8. Bagworm: Caterpillars that create spindle-shaped bags on trees, feeding on foliage and causing defoliation.

These pests can have significant impacts on tree health and can lead to widespread tree mortality if not managed effectively. Early detection and proper management are key to mitigating their effects.