Adelgid

The Cooley Spruce Gall Adelgid is an aphid-like pest. 

What are the Risks?

Adelgid's feed on spruce and Douglas fir. The adelgid injects saliva into its host when feeding, which is toxic to the tree, and as a result prohibits bud formation thus causing long-term tree decline. 

What to Look For

The adelgid is aphid-like and inconspicuous. It's life cycle consists of six different forms: 

• first form - formation of galls on branch tips;
• galls later turn reddish brown and dry out; and
• remaining forms - feed openly on needles.

Prevention

• Pick off new galls and burn them; and
• Insecticides used for aphid control may help decrease population levels in early spring.

Related Links

• Adelgids - UMN Extension