Ligustrum Gall Mites: Certified Arborist for Miticide Treatment

Situation

Gall mites on ligustrum tree/shrubs → bud death, no leaf out. 8 of 12 shrubs dead. Gardener says remove & burn tree.

Expert Recommendation

Hire FL ISA Certified Arborist. They can:

• Apply professional miticides (abamectin, spiromesifen, etc.).
• Deep-root fertilize if needed.
• Cost: $90–150/treatment; max 2 treatments.

Why Not DIY

• Gall mites (Aceria spp.) are microscopic, inside buds—contact sprays fail.
• Systemic miticides require professional equipment/license.
• Tree value justifies expert intervention.

Shrubs

8 dead = likely beyond saving. Remove, replace with resistant species.

Verify arborist ISA certification. Get written estimate. Fair price = $90–150 per treatment.