Are Wasps Bad For Trees?
WouterSeveral types of wasps are a beneficial predator to trees. They hunt and eat soft-bodied insects like flies and caterpillars. They also help to keep other pests under control.
Some types of wasps are harmful, but not all. There are a few species of wasps that produce tree galls. These galls clog the vascular structure of a branch and cause nutrients, water, and other substances to be removed from the tree. These tree galls are created by the gall wasp, an insect with a two-year life cycle.
These galls are caused by the Oriental chestnut gall wasp. The gall wasp is a relatively small troublemaker, but it is still harmful. The galls are formed when the gall wasp larvae consume soft sapwood or fungus-ridden wood. Some oaks may be affected, but the number of galls is small enough that the trees’ health isn’t affected.
Several types of wasps will build nests in trees. These nests will usually be located on the branches of the tree. The nests are usually grey in color and look like a paper mache football. The nests may grow rapidly in size.
Some wasps are parasites that attack the eggs of other insects. Some wasps also produce horned galls, or galls that gout out.
If you have a problem with wasps, you can try setting a trap that includes meat. You can also contact a pest removal company to help you get rid of wasps in trees. This method is safer and more eco-friendly.
