An Integrated Approach
Bartlett Tree Experts uses an integrated approach to managing insects and diseases that begins with maintaining plant health using sound cultural practices including pruning and creating optimal soil conditions for plant growth. Periodic inspections are essential to detect pest infestations before they reach damaging levels. Bartlett arborists are trained to recognize beneficial insects that will help naturally suppress pest populations, and we also release beneficials to augment existing populations. When treatments are necessary, Bartlett can apply organic and naturally based materials and reduced-risk products that provide effective pest suppression while protecting people and the environment.
Top-10 Insects
Hundreds of insect species damage leaves, stems, and branches; roots; and flowers and fruit of landscape plants. But not all insects on trees and shrubs are damaging. Some are beneficial and may help pollinate flowers or could be predators or parasites on insects that damage plants. Bartlett arborists are trained to correctly identify these beneficial insects and mites and can devise effective management programs that protect landscape plants from serious damage while conserving beneficial organisms.
Top ten insect and arthropod pests that threaten or damage landscape plants in the northeastern United States:
- Hemlock wooly adelgid
- Winter moths
- Japanese beetles
- Asian long-horned beetles
- Ambrosia beetles
- Southern pine beetles
- Emerald ash borer and other flat-headed borers including bronze birch borer and two-lined chestnut borer
- Weevils
- Spider mites
- Scale insects
Top-10 Diseases
Diseases are abnormalities in trees and shrubs caused by microorganisms such as fungi and bacteria and by environmental stress such as drought, temperature extremes, and air pollution. Diseases are often difficult to diagnosis as different causal agents can produce similar symptoms. Accurate diagnosis is essential to developing effective treatment programs. Bartlett operates a modern diagnostic laboratory to support pest management services to ensure accurate identification and treatment of plant problems.
Top ten diseases that threaten or damage landscape plants in the northeastern United States:
- Bacterial leaf scorch
- Phytophthora root rot
- Dutch elm disease
- Leaf spot diseases
- Anthracnose
- Needlecast
- Verticillium wilt
- Fire blight
- Bleeding canker and Phytophthora canker
- Powdery mildew
Tick Management
Ticks don't feed on landscape plants, but they commonly infest landscapes throughout the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic states.
The diseases that ticks carry are quickly transferred to humans and pets. Managing ticks requires an integrated approach including landscape modifications such as pruning and removing weedy vegetation to reduce tick habitats.
Deer Management
Technically, deer cannot be categorized as an insect or disease, but they are a significant threat to landscapes in the Northeast. One mature deer can consume more than 4 pounds of foliage per day, which can destroy landscape plants seemingly overnight. Deer are very intelligent animals that adapt quickly to tactics designed to deter them. At Bartlett Tree Experts, developing effective strategies to deter deer browse has been a major area of emphasis. We have developed methods to suppress feeding and protect plants using physical barriers as well as effective repellents including organic and natural-based products.
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