Because insects and diseases can cause similar symptoms and not all insects are harmful, accurate identification is essential. Our Arborists diagnose both insect and disease issues and develop targeted, science-based management plans that protect plant health while conserving beneficial organisms.
Insect and Disease Management in Durango, CO
Momentum Tree Experts uses an integrated approach to insect and disease management that begins with maintaining plant health using sound cultural practices, including pruning and creating optimal soil conditions for plant growth. Periodic inspections are essential to detect infestations before they reach damaging levels.
Momentum’s ISA-Certified Arborists identify and protect beneficial insects that naturally suppress pest insects and, when needed, can release additional beneficials to support control. When treatment is necessary, we prioritize organic and reduced-risk options, such as OMRI organic-approved AzaSol, to effectively manage pest insects while protecting people and the environment.
Insect and Disease Management FAQ
What are the most common tree insect pests in Durango, Colorado?
Common insect pests in the Durango area include western spruce budworm, spruce beetle, Douglas-fir beetle, mountain pine beetle, western balsam bark beetle, and sap-feeding insects such as aphids and adelgids (including spruce gall adelgid). These insects typically attack stressed or drought-impacted trees and can weaken or kill conifers by feeding on needles, sap, or the inner bark.
What are the most common tree diseases in Durango, Colorado?
Widespread tree diseases in the region include aspen decline and canker diseases, fungal shoot and tip blights such as Diplodia, root rot and decay fungi like Armillaria and Ganoderma, and dwarf mistletoe. These problems are often linked to environmental stress from drought, temperature extremes, and soil conditions, which reduce a tree’s natural defenses and allow pathogens to take hold.
What is Integrated Pest Management (IPM)?
IPM is a science-based approach that focuses on prevention, monitoring, and targeted treatment, using cultural practices, beneficial insects, and low-impact products before resorting to stronger controls.
How do you prevent insect and disease problems before they start?
Healthy trees are the first line of defense. Proper pruning, soil care, watering, and mulching improve natural resistance and reduce stress that attracts pest insects and pathogens.
When is the best time of year to treat for insect problems?
Fall and early spring are often ideal times to manage many common tree and shrub insects before their populations build to damaging levels in summer. Early treatment helps interrupt life cycles, reduces the need for more aggressive controls later in the season, and protects new growth as it emerges.
Why are regular tree inspections important?
Early detection allows problems to be treated before they become severe, costly, or irreversible.
Do you use beneficial insects in your treatments?
Yes. We both conserve naturally occurring beneficials and can release them to help suppress pest insect populations naturally.
What types of treatments do you use when intervention is needed?
We prioritize organic, naturally based, and reduced-risk products, such as OMRI organic-approved AzaSol, that effectively control pest insects while protecting people, pets, and the environment.
What causes tree diseases?
Diseases can be caused by fungi, bacteria, and environmental stressors such as drought, extreme temperatures, compacted soils, and air pollution.
Can insect damage make trees more susceptible to disease?
Yes. Insects can weaken trees and create entry points for pathogens, making integrated management essential.
How do you decide when treatment is necessary?
Treatment is recommended when pest insect or disease levels exceed what the tree can naturally tolerate and when intervention will meaningfully protect health and structure.
Can stressed trees recover from insect or disease damage?
Often, yes. With correct diagnosis, proper cultural care, and timely treatment, many trees can regain vigor and long-term stability.
Why Choose Momentum Tree Experts
Recognized as a top-rated tree service on Google Reviews, Momentum Tree Experts takes pride in delivering exceptional care. But it’s not just about the recognition. Here are 4 key reasons why homeowners in Durango trust us with their trees:
1. Professionalism
Our employees maintain a polished and professional appearance, including uniforms, and consistently communicate with respect and courtesy. We utilize state-of-the-art tools to deliver exceptional care for every job. As a fully insured, safety-certified, and accredited company, we ensure proper tree care. We are capable of responsibly addressing any errors that may arise.
2. Timeliness
We prioritize ease of scheduling. We rarely need to reschedule, except in special circumstances, to provide a smooth and reliable experience. Our team values punctuality, showing up as expected and completing jobs as promised. Additionally, we ensure accurate time expectations by consistently delivering projects within the timelines we set.
3. Proactive
We focus on long-term plant health, providing tailored care for orchards, forests, yards, or single trees. Our process includes a diagnostic consultation with an ISA- Certified Arborist. We address immediate concerns with timely initial treatments. Our recurring maintenance plans keep your acreage healthy, pest-free, and beautiful, with flexible scheduling to meet your needs.
4. Community Support
We foster community engagement with free educational sessions for clients on topics like community forest management. Additionally, we give back through partnerships and donations to local organizations. Some of these organizations include the Denver Botanic Gardens, Adaptive Sports Association, the Humane Society, and more.