Gain insight into the most common insect and diseases impacting trees in Alberta. This information includes identification features, visible symptoms, and recommended management options to support effective monitoring and control.
Cytospora canker, also known as Leucostoma canker, is a pervasive and damaging disease, primarily caused by the fungus Cytospora kunzei. The disease is notable on spruce species, such as the Colorado blue spruce (very susceptible to Cytospora canker), Norway spruce and native white and Engelman spruce. Disease causes tree significant structural damage; reduces their effectiveness […]
Cytospora canker on coniferous Read More »
Oystershell scales (Lepidosaphes ulmi) are tiny, armored insects that creatures are infesting a wide range of woody plants(trees and shrubs). Named for their resemblance to oyster shells, these scales have infested limbs and branches of wide range of deciduous (broad-leaved) trees and shrubs. Oystershell scales is serious pest to cotoneaster hedges and dogwood shrubs. Host
As fall is giving us spectacular leaf colours from hardwood species, the fall needle drop is a natural phenomenon that occurs in pine, spruce, fir and arborvitae trees during the autumn season. It is a process in which these trees shed their older needles, making way for new growth and ensuring the overall health and
Seasonal/Fall Needle Drop Read More »
The spruce budworm (Choristoneura fumiferana) is a native moth and one of the most serious and damaging spruce and fir trees defoliator in North America. It primarily attacks spruces ( white, black Colorado) and balsam fir trees in Alberta. It is a wasteful feeder on current year needles. White spruce is naturally established on 9
Black knot (Dibotryon morbosum) is a prevalent disease in the Canadian prairies, naturally occurring and predominantly affecting trees and shrubs within the Cherry (Prunus) genus. Various species, including ornamental and edible cherries (such as Maydays, Schubert chokecherry, chokecherry, Nanking cherry, pin cherry, sand cherry, sour cherry, etc.), Saskatoon\’s, and plums are susceptible to this disease.
Black Knot -Avoid Mistakes Read More »
Poplar borer (Saperda calcarata Say) is a native North American wood-boring beetle that attacks native aspen, balsam poplar, and willows, as well as a variety of poplar cultivars, including Swedish aspen and Towering poplar. In many urban areas, Swedish aspen and Towering poplar have been widely planted despite their relatively short life span and susceptibility
