Are these pests going to kill my tree?

Most common pests are just a nuisance. Only severe, long term infestations typically threaten the life of the tree.

Can I use chemical pesticides?

Try natural methods like water sprays or horticultural soap first. Chemical pesticides can often harm the beneficial insects that help keep pests in check.

What is eating my sweet chestnut tree? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Look closely at the undersides of the leaves for small insects.
Check the fallen nuts for tiny exit holes.
Inspect the bark for any signs of boring insects.

Likely causes

Chestnut weevils
Most likely
How to tell: You might find small holes in the nuts or see the adult beetles on the leaves.
What to do: Collect and destroy any fallen nuts immediately to break the life cycle. For small trees, you can use a horticultural soap to manage the adult population.
Aphids
Possible
How to tell: The leaves look sticky or curled, and you see tiny green or black insects on the undersides.
What to do: Spray the leaves with a strong stream of water to knock the aphids off. If the infestation is heavy, apply neem oil according to the label instructions.

Pests on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your sweet chestnut

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.

When to worry

Worry if the infestation is covering the entire tree or if you see significant branch dieback. It is normal to see a few stray bugs on any outdoor tree.

Stopping it coming back

Keep your tree vigorous with proper watering and annual mulching to help it resist pest attacks.

Sweet chestnut: pests? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your sweet chestnut 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.

Get the app · Or check it from a photo now, free

Questions people ask

Are these pests going to kill my tree?: Most common pests are just a nuisance. Only severe, long term infestations typically threaten the life of the tree.
Can I use chemical pesticides?: Try natural methods like water sprays or horticultural soap first. Chemical pesticides can often harm the beneficial insects that help keep pests in check.

Guides to these causes

Aphids

What is eating my sweet chestnut tree?

Check these first

Not sure what's wrong with your sweet chestnut?