This insect is the one most commonly encountered by our arborists, and can cause the death of the tree if left untreated. This bug is an example of how the import of pests into our country, in this case from Asia, can have devastating results to our forests and landscapes. Since there are no indigenous predators for this insect, it has spread unchecked throughout our landscapes and is threatening the native stands of Hemlock throughout the northeast. The adelgid itself is a small black insect that attaches to the under- side of hemlock twigs, where it remains and feeds. As the insects develop, they secrete the characteristic white wax that gives the bug its name. A mature infestation of adelgid looks like small cotton balls have been pasted to the underside of the twigs. Fortunately, this insect has proven to be easy to control, and we have had success in reviving trees with significant damage and heavy infestations. We feel that hemlocks are one of the most versatile and beautiful of our native evergreens and their use should not be discouraged because of this insect.
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