What Are Common Pests in Westlake Village, CA?

Our clients in Westlake Village commonly see tree pests that include common threats like bark beetles, aphids, caterpillars, and scale insects, which damage leaves and wood, alongside diseases like oak wilt and issues affecting citrus trees. The key signs to watch for are holes, frass (insect droppings), premature leaf drop, discoloration, and honeydew, with borers which can weakening structural integrity, requiring local arborists for identification and Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies to protect trees. 

Common Pests & Signs:

• Bark Beetles: Look for small holes in the trunk, sawdust (frass) around the base, and discolored or dying branches.
• Aphids: Sap-sucking insects causing sticky honeydew, stunted growth, and distorted leaves.
• Caterpillars: Cause leaf defoliation or chewed leaf edges.
• Scale Insects: Appear as small bumps on branches, sucking sap and weakening the tree.
• Wood Borers: Create holes in trunks/branches, leading to weakened wood and potential structural failure. 

Common Diseases:

• Oak Wilt: Affects oak trees, causing leaf discoloration and premature drop.
• Anthracnose: Fungal disease with leaf spots and blotches.
• Huanglongbing (Citrus Greening): A serious, incurable threat to citrus trees in Southern California. 

Signs of Trouble:

• Unusual leaf colors (yellow, red in summer).
• Spots or chewed areas on leaves.
• Premature leaf drop.
• Fungus or mushrooms on the tree or soil.
• Significant cracks or damage to bark. 

What to Do:

1. Inspect: Check leaves, branches, trunk, and soil.
2. Contact Experts: Consult local such as Ventura Tree Services for diagnosis and treatment.
3. Integrated Pest Management (IPM): Our arborists use IPM, combining methods like pruning, biological controls, and targeted treatments to minimize environmental impact.