Wool Sower Gall - toasted marshmallow-like galls formed around wasp larvae that appear on white oaks in early summer. One gall is actually a group of smaller, hairy galls joined at a common spot on a twig. You can pull these apart to see seed-like structures that contain the developing wasps.
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Galls: What are they?
Jan 25, 2023
Have you seen strange-shaped growths on your trees?
Growths like these are called galls. Galls are unusual, non-life-threatening growths on tree leaves or branches often formed in response to insect activity. They are unsightly but not cause for concern.
How are galls formed?
Galls are abnormal swellings of plant tissue, usually on leaves and twigs, that are a tree's response to insect, mite, bacteria, fungi, or nematode activity. The tree forms this tissue to encapsulate and protect itself from pest attack, yet the pests benefit from the formation of the gall. This type of symbiosis (relationship) is called commensalism.
Galls may appear as balls, knobs, lumps, or warts, each being characteristic of the organism present on the tree. They draw attention due to their range of colors: red, green, yellow, or black.
Galls may disfigure twigs and foliage, but they do not seriously affect the health of trees and shrubs. Chemical control is usually not recommended. The pests that cause the tree to form these woody growths are usually kept in control by their natural enemies. These pests must attack the target tree at a particular time during the year to be successful, otherwise they may not be able to stimulate tissue growth on the plant, which protects their eggs and larvae.
Common Galls - do you recognize any of these?
Eastern Spruce Gall - Galls on the bases of twigs of Norway and white spruce and occasionally black and red spruce are also caused by an adelgid. Prune out green galls in the summer to control.
Ash Flower Gall - this gall is formed around a small mite that leads to irregular distortion of male flowers. The galls are initially green, then dry and turn brown.
Honey Locust Pod Gall - this gall is caused by a small fly. Infested leaves have globular or pod-like distortions that contain one to several small maggots. Infested leaves often drop prematurely, and repeated damage can kill small branches. New shoots develop at the base of dead twigs. As a result, the natural shape of the tree may be lost.
Elm Cockscomb Gall - these distinct galls, caused by an aphid, are about 1 inch long. The irregular edge of the gall and its red color at maturity account for the common name. The galls dry, harden and turn brown as they age.
Hackberry Gall - caused by a small aphid-like insect with sucking mouthparts called a jumping plant louse. Feeding by the nymphs that hatch from these eggs causes abnormal plant growth that forms a pouch.
Maple Bladder Gall - This gall is caused by an eriophyid mite and is generally found on silver and red maple. These galls rarely require treatment.
Willow Pinecone Gall - The gall's appearance looks like a pinecone. Slicing the galls open lengthwise at this time of the year will reveal a single, plump, orange colored midge fly maggot nestled within an elongated chamber at the center of the gall structure. The chamber is protected by multiple layers of cone-like scales.
Horned Oak Gall - is a golf ball-sized growth in response to a small wasp. The 'horns' contain the wasp larvae that trigger the gall formation.
Roly Poly Galls - are similar in size and appearance to hollow green grapes. Inside, in a small, loose "seed like" structure, is the larva of a tiny wasp.
Jumping Oak Galls – caused by a small wasp, these round seed-like galls fall off leaves when mature. One wasp lives inside each gall, the wasp's activity may make the gall "jump" several inches off the ground.
How to treat galls
Most galls do not affect plant health, therefore treatment is usually not needed. Additionally, horticultural applications are generally not effective because the precise timing of treatment is critical. For maximum efficacy, apply the horticultural oil before gall formation begins, but when insects and mites are active. Once galls start to form it is too late for treatment, as the gall protects the insects. For insects that spend the winter on the host plant, apply the horticultural oil before insect activity begins in the spring.
Planting trees for privacy and screening offers numerous benefits, making it a popular choice for homeowners and landscapers alike. Here are some reasons why planting trees for privacy is advantageous: Natural barrier. Trees create a natural barrier that helps block unwanted views, noise, and distractions from neighboring properties, roads, or public spaces. Visual appeal. Trees add beauty and visual interest to outdoor spaces, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of your property. Year-round privacy. Evergreen trees provide year-round privacy and screening, even during the winter months when deciduous trees may lose their leaves. Increased property value. Well-designed landscaping, including trees for privacy, can increase the value of your property by improving curb appeal and creating a more attractive outdoor living space. Shade and comfort. Trees provide shade and shelter, creating a more comfortable and enjoyable outdoor environment for relaxation, recreation, and entertaining. Wildlife habitat. Trees attract birds, butterflies, and other wildlife, enriching the ecosystem and bringing nature closer to home. Windbreaks. Trees planted for privacy can also serve as windbreaks, reducing wind speeds and protecting your property from strong gusts. Privacy without isolation. Trees offer privacy without isolating you from the surrounding community. They provide a sense of seclusion while still allowing you to feel connected to your neighborhood. Environmental benefits. Trees help purify the air, absorb carbon dioxide, and release oxygen, contributing to a healthier and more sustainable environment. Personal well-being. Being surrounded by greenery and natural beauty has been shown to reduce stress, improve mood, and enhance overall well-being.
Throughout this series, we will explore the various flora that call our favorite hiking areas home. From the shores of the east coast to the old growth forest of the west, we'll delve into the rich tapestry of trees, uncovering their unique characteristics, ecological significance, and the stories they hold within their rings. Join us on this journey as we discover the botanical wonders that adorn our beloved trails and inspire a deeper connection to nature's marvels.
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