Pecan Phylloxera: Gall Management and Nut Production Protection

Pecan phylloxera are tiny, aphid-like insects that cause distinctive galls on leaves and twigs. While unsightly, they rarely threaten tree survival but can reduce nut yields for current and following years.

Management Decisions

• Ornamental trees only: No treatment needed; populations fluctuate naturally.
• Nut production desired: Spray spinosad or carbaryl at budbreak (½–¾ inch new growth)—typically early April.

Application Tips

• Use hose-end sprayer designed for trees to reach canopy.
• Two applications, two weeks apart.
• Timing is critical—spraying after galls appear is ineffective.
• Good control one year often suppresses populations for several years.

For large trees where full coverage is impossible, partial treatment still provides some benefit.