Hello,

I have a chokecherry tree that is heavily infested with what appears to be fingergalls. It is near lilacs, Blue Spruce and a pine type tree I don't know the correct name of. I am concerned about whether this infested tree can infect the neighboring trees? I also want to know the best and least toxic way of removing the pests without damaging the trees if possible. However I do not want our large Blue Spruce infected. It is a large tree I know I cannot manage to spray completely and if seriously damaged could threaten the house. If removal of the infected tree is the best answer I can comply and prefer that to the loss of neighboring trees.

I ask because I have read a great deal of conflicting and vague information ranging from it not being damaging to the tree itself and that possibly the pest may only attack certain trees followed by a laundry list of potential chemicals to remove all the infected portions of the tree at once. However I can find no creditable best practice. 

I try to avoid chemicals and currently use Cedarcide repelents on my lawn and garden as well as on myself. So I am keen to avoid anything toxic. Can the cedar oil based Cedarcide be used to treat and remove the pests for instance?

Are the pests causing the fingergalls something that can infect and damage the neighboring trees? And how do I best deal with the infestation and prevent spreading? 

I am attaching photos for you to view and am happy to answer any questions that can help you identify and inform me.

Thank you very much for your time and understanding