Redbud Bug Infestation - Ask Extension
Hello - I have a redbud in my front yard in Robbinsdale and about a month (or maybe longer) ago, the leaves starting being drained of their green colo...
Knowledgebase
Redbud Bug Infestation #812913
Asked October 02, 2022, 3:12 PM EDT
Hello - I have a redbud in my front yard in Robbinsdale and about a month (or maybe longer) ago, the leaves starting being drained of their green color. I then noticed when I walked near the tree it is swarming with these small bugs. They all sit under the leaves but anytime you walk near it, they swarm. It seems to be getting worse. I do not notice any of the bugs on any other trees or plants. I have attached photos.
Hennepin County Minnesota
Expert Response
You may possibly have aphids on your tree. The shine on the leaves indicates possible honeydew (a sticky substance secreted by aphids) and the loss of color would indicate that a sucking insect is responsible. Could you get a photo of the insect? Would you check the surface of the leaves and see if they are sticky?
Aphids in home yards and gardens | UMN Extension
Aphids in home yards and gardens | UMN Extension
One of the photos i I sent originally shows the insects. It is the close up of the leaf. The small black bugs look like small black lines.
You did not answer my question about whether the leaves have a sticky coating on them.
No. The leaves are not sticky
Attached is a better pic of the bugs
No. The leaves are not sticky
I realize it is almost impossible to get a good close up of the insects. But, judging by what you report and are seeing, we believe your insects may be Thrips.
Thrips Management Guidelines--UC IPM (ucanr.edu)
Thrips Management Guidelines--UC IPM (ucanr.edu)
Does this picture help? 
We still believe it is thrips.
