Have you recently discovered bulbous, textured bumps appearing on the leaves of your favorite oak or maple? What are the bumps on tree leaves? Top Tier Tree Specialist frequently encounters these bumps during our tree services in High Springs, FL. We’ll explain what they are and whether you should worry about them below.
What Are the Bumps on the Tree Leaves?
Those nubby, ugly bumps are called leaf galls. They appear as small, hardened bumps on the surface of a leaf with a creamy or brownish color. But how do they get there, and are they a cause for concern?
Understanding the Role of Galls
Leaf galls can vary in size, shape, and hardness levels. Some may crumble if you crush them while others feel hard and pebble-like.
Leaf-loving insects cause galls as a means of shelter and protection. Other natural forces may also contribute to gall development, but the most common culprits include:
- Root-knot nematodes: These worm-like parasites typically attack the tree roots, but can cause galls on leaves too.
- Gall wasps: Also known as gallflies, these tiny winged insects lay their eggs on leaves. The eggs cause galls to form as the offspring develops.
- Eriophyid mites: This family has over 200 genera of different mites that protect themselves by using tree leaf galls.
- Psyllids: The psyllid family of tree lice that feeds on tree juices, specifically from tender leaves.
What are the bumps on tree leaves, and how do you get rid of them? First, you need to determine whether the galls form from wasp breeding, a mite infestation, or something else.
What Can You Do About Gall Insects?
Once the galls appear, it means the insect damage has already taken its course. Galls typically just look unsightly rather than harming the specimen, so the tree will more than likely survive. An insect infestation or fungal infection that causes gall formations might weaken young or injured trees, so you might take extra precautions the following year.
Take Preventative Measures Next Year
To prevent galls for the next growing season, consider consulting a local arborist who specializes in plant pathology. They can recommend fungal, bacterial, and insect control measures that thwart organisms that could cause these bumps. If you’re concerned about preserving a weak or young specimen, you might also ask about services:
- Soil analysis: Find out what nutrients your tree misses out on.
- Customized fertilization blends: Replenish the soil with the missing nutrients through fertilizers.
- Mulch or compost spreads: Mulch and compost add organic nutrients to the soil and help retain moisture.
- Watering schedules: Some trees need more help accessing hydration. Your arborist can help you create the best schedule.
Top Tier Tree Specialist Offers a Certified Arborist Service in High Springs, Florida
What are the bumps on tree leaves? They typically come from insects, but fungi can also cause them. Learning about the best time to trim trees, water them, and refresh the surrounding area can combat these pesky organisms. Call Top Tier Tree Specialist at 352-472-8733 to meet with a certified arborist in High Springs, Florida.
