Summer is peak season not only for growing, but also for a wide range of pests and diseases that can impact the health of your landscape. From damaging insects to aggressive fungal infections, trees, shrubs, and lawns all face seasonal threats that homeowners should be aware of. Early detection and timely intervention are key to protecting your plants and maintaining a healthy, vibrant landscape throughout the season.

Tree and Pest Diseases

Several serious tree pests are active or visible during the summer months. The Spotted Lanternfly (SLF), an invasive pest originally from Asia, continues to spread in the Northeast. While its preferred host is the Tree of Heaven, it also feeds on a wide variety of hardwood trees and vines, leaving behind sticky honeydew that fosters sooty mold.

Another dangerous invader is the Emerald Ash Borer (EAB), which targets all native ash species and causes rapid decline and death. Infestation signs include D-shaped exit holes, canopy thinning, and bark splitting.

Similarly, Dutch Elm Disease (DED), a vascular wilt spread by bark beetles, remains a threat to mature elms in the region. Prompt removal of infected limbs and monitoring is critical to limiting spread. Spongy Moth (formerly Gypsy Moth) populations can also flare up in summer, defoliating oak and other hardwoods with remarkable speed.

Beech Leaf Disease (BLD) continues to affect both American and European beeches. This disease, associated with a foliar nematode, causes dark striping between leaf veins, curling, and leaf loss. If left unmanaged, it can lead to the gradual death of otherwise healthy beech trees.

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Why Summer Lawn Care Is Different

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Is Your Tree Dead or Just Late to Leaf Out?

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Our 2025 Arbor Day Celebrations

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Drought Watch: Protecting Your Landscape in Hot Weather

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Protecting Your Family from Ticks and Mosquitoes

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Identifying Hazardous Trees Before Summer Storms

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Organic Lawn Care: Going Green Without Giving Up Results

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Trees to Consider: Black Gum

The Black Gum, also known as Black Tupelo, is one of the most underappreciated yet stunning native trees in the northeastern United States. Renowned for its glossy summer foliage and vibrant fall color — ranging from deep scarlet to orange and yellow — the Black Gum adds year-round visual interest and ecological... (more)

We’re proud to share that all Almstead branch offices in NY, NJ, and CT have once again earned TCIA Accreditation — the gold standard in the tree care industry! This rigorous program evaluates companies on professionalism, safety, training, ethics, and customer satisfaction. It’s the only accreditation of its kind in the U.S., and it means you can trust that we’re fully insured, licensed, and committed to delivering expert, ethical care.

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