Tree Diseases and Pest Infestations in Connecticut: What You Need to Know

Tree Diseases and Pest Infestations in Connecticut: What You Need to Know

Connecticut's forests and landscapes are home to a beautiful variety of trees—but they’re also under constant threat from an ever-growing list of pests and diseases. From the infamous Spotted Lanternfly to the nearly invisible Beech Leaf Disease, homeowners need to be more vigilant than ever to keep their trees healthy. At Schmitt Tree and Landscaping, we understand the value of healthy trees. We offer professional tree removal and expert assessments to help you know when a tree may need to come down due to irreversible damage.

Common Tree Pests and Diseases in Connecticut

1. Beech Leaf Disease

This emerging threat to Connecticut trees is caused by microscopic nematodes that hide within beech tree leaves. The disease shows itself through dark green or yellow banding between leaf veins, followed by browning, curling, and premature leaf drop. Once established, this disease can severely weaken your tree, sometimes beyond recovery.

2. Emerald Ash Borer (EAB)

Small but devastating, this metallic green beetle feeds on ash trees and can quickly lead to death if left untreated. Signs include a thinning canopy, bark splitting, and small, D-shaped holes on the trunk. Ash trees in Connecticut have little natural defense against this invasive species.

3. Spotted Lanternfly (SLF)

Although it looks colorful and harmless, the SLF is a major threat in Connecticut’s forestry. It pierces tree bark to suck out sap, leaving behind sticky honeydew and black sooty mold. SLFs are especially problematic for fruit trees and vital crops, but they also attack a wide range of hardwoods. 

4. Spongy Moth

Previously known as the gypsy moth, this pest defoliates trees by the thousands, particularly Connecticut oak trees. A severe infestation can strip a tree bare, leading to stress, vulnerability to disease, and in some cases, death.

5. Hemlock Woolly Adelgid

This tiny white insect targets Eastern Hemlocks, feeding on sap and slowly draining the tree’s vitality. Yellowing needles, premature needle drop, and general decline are warning signs of infestation.

6. Asian Longhorned Beetle

Difficult to detect and highly destructive, this beetle bores into a variety of hardwood Connecticut trees. Look for round exit holes and sawdust-like material at the base of the trunk.

7. Eastern Tent Caterpillars & Jumping Worms

Eastern Tent Caterpillars create unsightly webs and defoliate trees during their feeding frenzy. Jumping Worms, while not tree pests, can deplete soil nutrients, weakening the environment around your Connecticut property’s trees.

Removing a tree from your Connecticut home or property may seem like a daunting task, however we are trained to help you make an informed decision and can assess your potential risk free of charge. We believe that tree removal is a serious task that should be assessed and completed by a professional, reliable tree removal company with experience in Connecticut. 

When Is It Time to Call in the Professionals?

Tree pest damage often starts small and invisible. But when signs begin to show, such as leaf discoloration, bark damage, dieback, or sudden decline, it may be too late to save the tree. That’s when Schmitt Tree and Landscaping’s professional tree removal services will ensure your property stays safe and your landscape remains healthy.

We specialize in diagnosing damage and determining whether tree removal is necessary to protect your property. Whether you’re dealing with a dying ash tree due to Emerald Ash Borer or a storm-weakened oak infested with caterpillars, our experienced team can assess the health and safety of your tree.

We Offer:

• Tree assessments for disease or pest damage.
• Safe, efficient professional tree removal.
• Tree trimming and care recommendations.
• Free consultations and no-obligation estimates.

Protecting Your Property and the Environment

Insect infestations don’t just affect individual trees—they can spread quickly and cause widespread damage across entire landscapes across Connecticut. Removing one compromised tree can often help save others nearby.

If you suspect your tree may be diseased, infested, or simply in poor health, don’t wait. A weakened tree can pose serious safety risks, especially during storms or high winds.

At Schmitt Tree and Landscaping, we are a fully licensed and insured tree care company with more than a decade of experience serving Connecticut homeowners. We’re committed to helping you keep your property safe, healthy, and beautiful.

Contact Us today for a free professional tree removal estimate and let our team help you take the next steps toward a safer and healthier landscape.