CLICK HERE for the Emerald Ash Borer signs, symtoms, removal guildlines, treatment and control options, disposal recommendations and more.
Tiny aphid-like insects called adelgids are the cause of unusual swellings (galls) that form at the ends of spruce branches. The galls they make are the result of enzymes released when these insects feed on the plant tissues. The two most commonly found are the Cooley spruce gall adelgid and the eastern spruce gall adelgid. Between them, almost all species of spruce trees may be attacked. Another gall is caused by the Spruce gall midge. These galls may be confused with those of eastern spruce gall adelgids. Light infestations of spruce gall pests do not injure healthy, established trees. On small trees, control light infestations by hand-picking the galls as they form. Heavy infestations are ugly and can disfigure a tree or stunt its growth. Galls protect the spruce gall pests from biological and chemical control during most of their lives. Therefore correct timing of control applications is extremely important.