Know diseases and pests (false acacia)

Common diseases of the black locust

The three most common diseases that occur specifically in black locust trees

• the black locust leaf miner
• the Phloespora leaf spot disease
• Aphids

The black locust leaf miner

Unfortunately, the pest brought in from America has no natural predators in this country. The butterfly lays its eggs on the leaves of the black locust. The hatched larvae then feed on the leaves. Accordingly, there are meandering traces of feeding on the leaves. Fortunately, the moth does not endanger the health of the black locust. An intervention is therefore not necessary. Should you still optically disturb the tracks, simply collect the caterpillars from the leaves.

The Phloespora leaf spot disease

This is a fungus that spreads particularly often on black locust trees. Its appearance is particularly likely after rainy springs. Centimeter large, round spots on the leaves or on the shoots of the petioles are characteristic. In the course of the year the shape of the leaves changes, their edges are often torn. Although this pest does not necessarily threaten the existence of your black locust, you should not just stand by in the case of the Phloespora leaf spot disease. Remove all affected branches with a vigorous pruning. Only if there is no improvement afterwards should you think about the use of chemical agents.

Aphids

Aphids are not only found on the black locust, but apparently they are particularly fond of the deciduous tree. If detected early, simply hosing down with one helps Water hose. Curd soap dissolved in water achieves an even better effect. Tinctures mixed with oil are also successful in the fight against the parasites. The most natural treatment is to put predators such as wasps or flies on the black locust. However, the chances of success here are not one hundred percent.