growth on leaves / stems - Ask Extension
I live in the McKeesport area approx. 10 minutes from the McKeesport branch of Penn State. Can you tell me what is growing or attached to the bottom ...
Knowledgebase
growth on leaves / stems #132428
Asked June 05, 2013, 10:52 PM EDT
I live in the McKeesport area approx. 10 minutes from the McKeesport branch of Penn State. Can you tell me what is growing or attached to the bottom of the leaves and stems. Looking up from the ground they appear to be all over my neighbor's tree and the leaves are falling off the tree (almost like it's fall) into my yard and garden and most of the leaves are covered with these. Additionally, whom do I contact if this is unsafe for the ornamental trees and vegetable and flower gardens in my own yard?
Allegheny County Pennsylvania
Expert Response
Looks like galls have formed. Galls are abnormal growths that appear because of an irritation to the plant. It mostly because of insects, but can also be a disease state. It's hard to tell the difference unless you can see the insects.
Once the galls have formed, the insect is protected inside and pesticides are usually not effective.
Good news is that the health of the tree is usually not affected. If you would like to take a sample to your county extension office, they can send it to be analyzed.
