Pocket Botanist
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Check these first
- Look for bumps on the bark that look like part of the tree.
- Check the leaves for a sticky, clear residue.
- See if ants are crawling up and down the trunk.
Likely causes
Scale Insects
Most likelyHow to tell: Look for small, bump like growths on the twigs and branches that do not move. You might also see a shiny, sticky substance called honeydew on the leaves below.
What to do: Scrub the branches gently with a soft brush to remove the insects. Apply horticultural oil during the dormant season to smother any remaining eggs.
Aphids
PossibleHow to tell: These tiny, soft bodied insects cluster on new growth and cause leaves to curl. They also produce sticky honeydew that attracts ants.
What to do: Spray the tree with a strong stream of water to knock them off. If they persist, use insecticidal soap once a week until they are gone.
Find out what's wrong with your red maple
The list above covers the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at a photo of your actual plant and tells you the likely cause, how serious it is, and what to try first. Identification and a health check are free.
Scan with your phone's camera to get the app
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When to worry
Worry if you see heavy branch dieback or if the tree is covered in sticky residue. A few bugs are rarely a threat to a mature tree.
Stopping it coming back
Keep your tree healthy with proper watering and regular inspections to catch infestations early.
Red Maple: pests? Check yours with a photo
Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your red maple and Pocket Botanist tells you which cause is most likely, how serious it is, and what to try first. A few checks a day are free. Save the plant and you get care reminders timed for it.
Scan with your phone's camera to get the app
Or go to pocketbotanist.app/get on your phone
Get the app · Or check it from a photo now, free
Questions people ask
- Can I use regular bug spray?
- Avoid harsh chemical sprays as they can harm beneficial insects. Horticultural oil or insecticidal soap is much safer for your tree.
- Why are ants all over my tree?
- Ants are likely farming the scale or aphids for their sweet honeydew. Getting rid of the pests will make the ants leave.
Guides to these causes
More problems with Red Maple
This article was generated with AI on from the plant’s care profile and is general information, not horticultural advice. Read about how we build these guides.