zaphoid
enthusiast
Posts: 517
Loc: Allen
Reg: 05-30-08
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05-05-12 10:11 AM - Post#149036
I noticed a few days ago that two of my large back yard trees are infested with Mealybugs. I'm not sure how to treat such a large infestation in large trees. Its really a issue because they are dripping their sap like substance all over my backyard and vegetable garden. Any ideas?
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denisew
Community Expert
Posts: 8757
Loc: Allen, TX
Reg: 02-18-02
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05-05-12 11:11 AM - Post#149040
In response to zaphoid
Lady beetles will help control them. I had scale in my large crape myrtles and used my hose end sprayer set on a hard spray (like pressure wash setting) to spray them off. You'll also need to treat your yard for ants since they feed off the honeydew (the sap-like substance which is really their poo) and protect them. There are also beneficial wasps that might help too - trichogamma wasps.
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zaphoid
enthusiast
Posts: 517
Loc: Allen
Reg: 05-30-08
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05-05-12 05:16 PM - Post#149044
In response to denisew
I won't be able to spray them off. The tree tops are 30 feet.
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denisew
Community Expert
Posts: 8757
Loc: Allen, TX
Reg: 02-18-02
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05-05-12 08:50 PM - Post#149046
In response to zaphoid
You know this always reminds me of the movie, "Field of Dreams." Remember the quote, "If you build it, they will come."? Well, when it comes to bugs, "If you wait a bit, they will come." meaning the lady beetles and other beneficial insects. There really isn't a way to spray a tree that tall anyway. You could try releasing the beneficial insects and hope they find the feast. Since we know the ants are feeding off the honeydew and their home is on the ground, then start by trying to controlling the ants by broadcasting a bait. You could also contact the Collin County Master Gardeners and ask for their suggestions on how to take care of the mealybugs or scale or whatever is up there. They can be contacted here: Collin County Master Gardeners
Allen Garden Club
www.allengardenclub.org
"I am a little pencil in the hand of a writing God who is sending a love letter to the world." - Mother Teresa |
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