Trees are one of your landscape’s most valuable assets—providing shade, beauty, and even boosting your property value. But here in Southern Maryland, local trees face serious threats from insects and disease that can weaken or kill them if not caught early.

Knowing what to look for—and how to protect your trees—can save you thousands in potential damage and removals. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Emerald Ash Borer

• This invasive beetle has devastated ash trees across Maryland.
• Look for D-shaped holes in the bark and canopy dieback.
• Once infested, trees decline rapidly without treatment.
  
  

2. Gypsy Moth (Spongy Moth)

• Feeds on oak, maple, birch, and other hardwoods.
• Heavy infestations strip trees bare of leaves in spring and early summer.
• Repeated defoliation weakens trees and leaves them open to disease.
  
  

3. Anthracnose & Leaf Spot Diseases

• These fungal infections cause black or brown spots, curling leaves, and early leaf drop.
• Common after wet springs or summers.
  
  

4. Bagworms & Webworms

• These pests spin visible webs in trees like pines and oaks.
• They feed on leaves and can disfigure trees over time.

Protect Your Trees with:

Regular Inspections

Check your trees at least once per season. Look for:

• Discolored or spotted leaves
• Dead limbs
• Premature leaf drop
• Unusual holes or webbing
  
  

Pruning & Clean-Up

Proper pruning improves airflow and prevents fungus from spreading. Also, remove dead wood and leaf litter where pests can hide.

Choose the Right Trees

Native and disease-resistant trees like red maple, river birch, and white oak tend to do better in our Southern Maryland climate.

Treat When Necessary

Professional tree services can apply targeted treatments like:

• Systemic insecticides for emerald ash borer
• Fungicides for leaf diseases
• Biological control for pests like caterpillars
  

Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late

The earlier you detect a problem, the better the chances of saving your tree. At HoneyCove Tree Services, we offer expert tree inspections, disease diagnosis, and treatment options tailored to Southern Maryland’s trees and pests.

Worried about a sick tree?
Call us today at 443-486-5812 for a free consultation..