Top 5 Tree Pests in Michigan (And What You Can Do)

Why Michigan Trees Are Vulnerable to Pests

Michigan’s lush forests and suburban trees are beautiful—but they also attract a variety of pests that can wreak havoc if left unchecked. Between extreme weather, diverse hardwoods, and seasonal changes, trees in this region often experience stress, which weakens their natural defenses.

Homeowners and property managers need to stay alert. Early detection and professional intervention can make the difference between saving a tree or needing full removal.

1. Emerald Ash Borer

What It Attacks: Ash trees

What to Look For:

• D-shaped holes in bark
• Canopy dieback from the top down
• Suckers or sprouts at the tree base
• Splitting bark and galleries underneath

Why It’s a Problem:
This invasive beetle has destroyed millions of ash trees across the Midwest. Once infected, the tree usually dies within 1–3 years.

What You Can Do:
Removal is often the only option for heavily infested trees. For early detection, consult Vizion Tree Service for a professional assessment.

2. Gypsy Moth (Spongy Moth)

What It Attacks: Oak, birch, aspen, and more

What to Look For:

• Large clumps of fuzzy tan egg masses on trunks and furniture
• Defoliated trees in late spring to early summer
• Caterpillars crawling on tree bark and homes

Why It’s a Problem:
They strip entire trees of their leaves, weakening them over time. A few seasons of defoliation can lead to serious decline or death.

What You Can Do:
Manual removal of egg masses, treatment with insecticides, and tree trimming help reduce infestation. Annual inspection is key.

3. Oak Wilt

What It Attacks: Red oaks, white oaks

What to Look For:

• Wilting leaves that turn brown quickly
• Rapid decline (often within weeks)
• Dead crown with lower branches still green

Why It’s a Problem:
Oak wilt spreads through root systems and beetles. Once one tree is infected, nearby oaks are also at risk.

What You Can Do:
Avoid pruning oaks between April and July. If infected, removal and stump grinding may be required to prevent spread.

4. Scale Insects

What It Attacks: Maples, dogwoods, fruit trees

What to Look For:

• Sticky residue (honeydew) on leaves or ground
• Black sooty mold developing afterward
• Tiny bumps on branches or leaves

Why It’s a Problem:
They weaken trees by sucking out sap, leaving them more vulnerable to other pests and diseases.

What You Can Do:
Dormant oil sprays, pruning infected limbs, and ongoing tree care help manage infestations.

5. Tent Caterpillars

What It Attacks: Wild cherry, apple, ash, and other deciduous trees

What to Look For:

• Large silk-like nests in branch forks
• Stripped leaves
• Caterpillars feeding in groups

Why It’s a Problem:
While they don’t always kill trees, repeated defoliation stresses them. Weakened trees are more prone to other problems.

What You Can Do:
Remove nests early in the morning or late evening. Tree trimming can reduce future outbreaks.

When to Call a Professional

If you're seeing early signs of any of these issues, don’t wait. Pest damage often happens quietly and progresses quickly. At Vizion Tree Service, we inspect, diagnose, and treat Michigan tree pest problems before they become costly removals.

Our team is trained to identify subtle indicators and recommend the best treatment or removal plan for long-term tree health.

FAQs About Tree Pests in Michigan

Can pest infestations kill a healthy tree?
Yes. Pests like emerald ash borers and oak wilt can quickly overwhelm even strong trees.

How can I tell if my tree has pests or just needs trimming?
Visible symptoms like holes, sawdust, fungus, or dying leaves are common signs. If you're unsure, we offer inspections.

Can you treat a tree, or does it always need to be removed?
In some cases, yes. Early detection is key. Certain pests can be managed with targeted treatments.

Is pest control part of routine tree maintenance?
Yes. Preventive care like pruning, fertilizing, and monitoring greatly reduces pest risk.

Schedule a Tree Health Inspection Today

If you suspect your tree is under attack, Vizion Tree Service is here to help. We offer comprehensive inspections, trimming, pest identification, and removal if needed. Protect your landscape and avoid costly damage.

Call (517) 304-7403 today for a free tree assessment.