Oak Gall Wasps
What is it?
Several species of small gall wasps (Family Cynipidae) form a variety of distinctive twig and leaf galls on bur oak growing in our region.
These galls are abnormal plant growths stimulated by the developing wasp larvae. The tiny dark adult wasps are seldom seen by the homeowner.
What's the problem?
These conspicuous growths provide the wasps with food and protection, however, they often raise concerns that something is wrong with the tree. Woody galls that form on twigs may persist on the oak tree for several years after the wasps have left them.
What can I do?
Since galls on oak leaves cause mostly cosmetic damage, control is not usually required. Insecticide sprays would also be ineffective against the young wasps protected inside their galls. There are also a number of natural enemies that successfully attack gall wasps.
Woody galls on the twigs typically won't kill the branch, however, a large number of galls may reduce the amount of growth. Such galls can simply be removed by hand and destroyed.
For More Information
Pest Management
12304 107 ST
Edmonton AB T5G 2S7
| Telephone | In Edmonton: 311 Outside Edmonton: 780-442-5311 |
|---|---|
| Fax | 780-496-4978 |
| treebugs@edmonton.ca |
