Weeping Mulberry Leaf Skeletonizers: Minor Pest, Check for Drought Stress

Six-year-old weeping mulberry leafed late, bare branch bottoms. Arborist said fine. Owner found leaves with transparent “skin” encasing tiny white worms, plus a flesh-colored spider. Brown spots on other leaves. Nearby flowering plum died from borers. Expert: hard to diagnose without weather history. Small infestation won’t hurt tree. Spots likely fungal. Drought stress (this/last year) possible. Ask if arborist was certified.

What to Do

• Monitor—minor leaf damage is cosmetic.
• Rake fallen leaves to reduce fungi.
• Water deeply in drought.
• Hire certified arborist for borer inspection.

Don’t panic over skeletonizers; watch the big picture.