| We have 20 eucalyptus trees. They are being attacked by a beetle, I think. The trees are dying. There are little clear round eggs on the leaves and they are sticky. What can we do to treat the trees? |
| Eucalyptus are native to Australia and have remained relatively pest-free until about ten years ago. The European Long Horned Beetle, a pest of eucalyptus in its native land, has found its way to stands of eucalyptus in California and Arizona. There are no natural predators of this insect and control is difficult. The best way to deal with this pest is to avoid pruning from May to October when sap is flowing. Sap attracts the beetles, as does freshly cut wood. Healthy trees can usually withstand a beetle infestation and outgrow the damage. For the latest in chemical control measures you can contact your local Cooperative Extension office: University of California, Kaiser Bldg., 300 Lakeside Dr., 6th Floor, Oakland, CA 94612-3560. Phone (510) 987-0505. |
