Holes in leaves of tree - Ask Extension
I think our tree is an American linden. Something is making holes and eating the leaves. The bark seems fine and we don’t see any bugs on it. We ha...
Knowledgebase
Holes in leaves of tree #872493
Asked June 10, 2024, 6:09 PM EDT
I think our tree is an American linden. Something is making holes and eating the leaves. The bark seems fine and we don’t see any bugs on it. We have a lot of small branches falling often. See attached pictures. What can we use to prevent damage to leaves?
Ramsey County Minnesota
Expert Response
We found some leaves with growths. See attached picture.
There are a number of leaf-eating larvae that pass through in the spring. My guess is that is what you are seeing. These will typically move on or move out. Here is one:
https://extension.umn.edu/yard-and-garden-insects/spring-and-fall-cankerworms
Look at this diagnostic site:
https://apps.extension.umn.edu/garden/diagnose/plant/deciduous/linden/leavesholes.html
The "growths" are harmless spindle galls:
https://horticultureforhomegardeners.ca/2021/06/21/spindle-galls-unusual-growths-on-linden-leaves-caused-by-eriophyid-mites/
https://extension.umn.edu/yard-and-garden-insects/spring-and-fall-cankerworms
Look at this diagnostic site:
https://apps.extension.umn.edu/garden/diagnose/plant/deciduous/linden/leavesholes.html
The "growths" are harmless spindle galls:
https://horticultureforhomegardeners.ca/2021/06/21/spindle-galls-unusual-growths-on-linden-leaves-caused-by-eriophyid-mites/
