In addition to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew, there are a number of pests that can occur on hornbeams. The younger the tree, the more damage they can do. What to do in the event of a pest infestation.

If hornbeams show yellow leaves outside of the autumn period, they should be checked for pests and diseases

Which pests occur on hornbeams?

  • gall midges
  • spider mites
  • scale insects
  • cockchafer
  • alder leaf beetle
  • frost spinner
  • oak moth
  • mice

Identifying features for various pests

If the leaf buds swell but do not sprout, gall midges are responsible. Spider mites and scale insects leave spots and small holes on the upper surface of the leaves. You can discover the pests on the underside of the leaves.

The larvae and maggots of alder leaf beetles, frost moths, cockchafers and oak moths cause great damage to the leaves. Often you will find the larvae and maggots or the beetles and moths themselves on the leaves.

If the hornbeam turns brown and dries up even though it has been watered often enough, mice may be to blame. They eat the roots. If the damage is severe, you can simply pull the hornbeam out of the ground.

fight pests

For small pests, cut off all affected parts of the plant generously. The hornbeam doesn't mind. It also recovers from a heavy piece cut down to the old wood.

Collect larger pests such as maggots and beetles. Stop ant trails leading up to the hornbeam to control lice.

If you have mice in the garden, you should definitely do something to keep them away from the roots of the hornbeam.

prevent pest infestation

A light pest infestation does not bother a healthy hornbeam that much. Make sure the hornbeam finds ideal conditions.

Drought or too much moisture favor pest infestation. Water younger hornbeams more frequently. This is no longer necessary for older trees.

Cut back the hornbeam several times a year, especially at the beginning. Pruning drastically reduces the number of pests, so the infestation doesn't get as severe.

tips

If the spots on the tops of the leaves are multicolored, look under the leaves. If these are covered by a fungal lawn, the pest is a fungus that needs to be treated. The fungal disease mildew occurs even more frequently on the hornbeam than animal pests.

Category:

Trees