Local Pest

The presence of disease and pests in Southern California is nothing new, but a few species have made their presence known and are having devastating effect on common native and landscape tree’s.

The Polyphagous Shot Hole Bore is making itself known in Southern California by infecting trees with a disease known as Fusarium Dieback (FD). This disease interferes with the transportation of water in trees and eventually leads to drying branches, overall health decline and death.

Look for small entry holes that have staining or discoloring beneath the bark. Additionally, dying branches are another sign that homeowners can easily spot as the disease progresses.

As far as known suitable hosts for the Shot Hole Bore, the Carrotwood tree – known for its hardiness to most pest – is one that arborist are most surprised has been the host for these small pest, part of the University of California’s list of suitable hosts of the Shot Hole Bore.

A few other pests to watch for in your communities are the Gold-Spotted Oak Borer and the Asian Citrus Psyllid. These two miniscule pests can cause huge damage but can be difficult to spot, due to their small nature.

If you suspect your tree may be infected, contact a certified arborist to have your tree inspected. It is best to remove the tree to ensure other trees in the area are not infected with the FD disease.