Knowledgebase

Apple tree bugs #872853

Asked June 12, 2024, 5:40 PM EDT

Hello! I am reaching out for assistance with my apple tree. Last year I was having issues with my apples being ruined, I reached out to you and received advice regarding apple tree spray- this has worked great so far! (I have been using Monterey Garden insect spray containing Spinosad for control of foliage feeding worms, thrips, leafminers, and other pests). Our tree has more leaves and more apples than ever and so far the apples look good. However, I have noticed there seems to still be quite a few bugs on the leaves- I captured pictures of 3 bugs I saw and attached them. I am hoping you can let me know if these bugs are helpful or harmful for the tree/what kind of bugs they are and if they could potentially be related to leaf curling- I have noticed a small number of leaves starting to curl inward and I'm unsure if this is due to bugs or perhaps underwatering (missed a couple days in a row that were warm). Any insight or resources you can provide would be greatly appreciated. Thank you! -Kayla

Washington County Oregon

Expert Response

These are life stages of lady bugs. Pretty wild, eh? This pocket guide, downloadable as a pdf, includes photos. These are generally regarded as beneficial bugs.
Leaf curl can be due to so many reasons—too much water, too little, insect, disease, and even rapid weather changes. Watch overall tree health and lift soil to check moisture levels. A few curled leaves is common. You shouldn’t need to water an apple tree daily, so monitor moisture or you might be overdoing it with daily irrigation.

Loading ...