Insects That Cause Leaf Damage on the Weeping Cherry Tree

Aphids

• Aphids are cited as a potential foliage insect problem in weeping cherry by the University of Florida Extension site. Aphids are small insects with soft bodies and special long mouth parts that they use to pierce tender plant areas and suck sap or plant fluid. The insects differ in color depending on species and cause leaves to distort, curl and wilt with their feeding. As they feed, the insects secrete a sticky substance called honeydew, which leads to the growth of a black fungus on infested foliage. Management includes continually monitoring trees for insects. Introducing natural predators like lacewing, syrphid fly and lady beetles is a recommended biological control method. Chemical control options include the use of insecticidal soap and acephate.

Spider Mites

• The University of Florida Extension lists spider mites as a potential leaf damaging pest of weeping cherry. The insects belong to the spider, tick and scorpion family and differ in color depending on species. Symptoms of infestation include bronzing, scorching or flecking of foliage and leaf drop as they feed on the foliage sap. Severe infestations causes serious stress to the tree. Control options include natural predators like dark-colored lady beetles and predatory thrips. Chemical control includes the use of specifically mite targeted products like miticides or acaricides.

Tent Caterpillars

• As cited by the University of Florida Extension site, the foliage of weeping cherry is susceptible to damage from the infestation of tent caterpillars. The caterpillars get their name by their habit of using their silk webbing to create large tents over their feeding areas before feeding on the leaves underneath. The caterpillars overwinter as eggs and start to emerge in spring and summer. Tent caterpillars eat all leaf areas except the veins. Management includes pruning and destroying small tree areas. Recommended chemical control includes the use of Bacillus thuringiensis spray on infested tree.