Insect Control

Arborist wearing a safety vest and gloves injecting treatment into the base of a large tree using soil or root injection tubes.

Insect Control

Insect Management & Tree Pest Control Services

At P.C. Hoag & Co., our team of ISA-certified arborists takes a science-first approach to protecting trees and shrubs from harmful insect infestations. From subtle canopy damage to severe root and trunk decline, insect pressure is one of the most common—and preventable—threats to plant health in New Hampshire and Western Maine.

Trees Can’t Talk, But the Signs Are There

Early leaf drop, canopy thinning, or off-season color changes can all signal insect activity long before visible pests appear. Left untreated, insect infestations can spread quickly and compromise structural integrity, sap flow, or photosynthesis. Our consulting arborists are trained to spot these early indicators and respond with strategic, minimally invasive interventions.

Our Science-Based Approach

Our tree and plant health care programs are rooted in current research and best industry practices. We prioritize treatments that correct underlying conditions—like soil stress, improper pruning, or compaction—while deploying organic and low-impact control methods only when needed.

Common Tree Pests in Our Region

  • Hemlock Woolly Adelgid: An invasive aphid-like pest that targets hemlocks and slowly weakens them over time. Early detection enables safe, effective treatment.
  • Winter Moth Caterpillars: Aggressive defoliators that strip leaves in spring. Well-timed foliar sprays limit damage.
  • Scale Insects: Small but destructive pests that drain plant sap. We use systemic or foliar treatments depending on the species and severity.
  • Carpenter Ants: These ants tunnel into dead or decaying wood and can severely weaken tree trunks. Bait treatments are an effective solution.
  • Ticks: A public health concern, ticks can thrive in unmanaged brush. We offer control programs for landscapes where Lyme disease risk is high.
  • Mosquitos: Carriers of West Nile Virus and other diseases, mosquitos can be managed seasonally or ahead of outdoor events for added safety.

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Solutions

Corrective Pruning

Insects often target damaged or overcrowded limbs. Our pruning services help increase airflow, remove infected tissue, and reduce habitat for pests.

Targeted Treatments

When chemical intervention is required, we use precise application methods—such as systemic injections or foliar sprays—designed to limit environmental impact and protect beneficial insects.

Long-Term Landscape Health

Our goal isn’t just to eliminate pests—it’s to promote resilience. We evaluate the root causes of infestation, including poor soil quality, nutrient deficiencies, or environmental stressors, and offer solutions that strengthen plant health over time.

Why Homeowners Trust P.C. Hoag & Co.

  • ISA-Certified Arborists with deep pest biology knowledge
  • Minimal-Impact Treatments that protect pollinators and nearby vegetation
  • Customized Care Plans based on site assessments and lab diagnostics
  • Emergency Response Available for sudden infestations or tree damage
  • Family-Run Since 1976 with a commitment to preservation and science-backed care

 


Request a Tree Pest Evaluation

If your landscape shows signs of insect stress—or if you’d like a preventive evaluation—contact P.C. Hoag & Co. today. We’ll provide a detailed inspection and develop a targeted plan to protect your trees and restore balance to your outdoor space.

Call 603-323-7217 or book a consultation online.


FAQs

Q: What types of pests can you treat?
A: We manage a wide range of tree and shrub pests, including aphids, borers, scale insects, caterpillars, and spider mites.

Q: Do you use environmentally safe insect control methods?
A: Yes, we use Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies that prioritize environmentally responsible and low-impact treatments whenever possible.

Q: How do you determine if a tree needs insect treatment?
A: Our ISA Certified Arborists inspect for visible damage, pest activity, and signs of stress before recommending targeted treatment plans.

Q: Can insect infestations be prevented?
A: Yes, with regular monitoring and proactive treatments, we can often prevent infestations before they cause significant damage.

Q: Is insect control safe for pets and wildlife?
A: We carefully select and apply treatments with safety in mind, minimizing risks to pets, pollinators, and beneficial insects. Let us know if you have specific concerns.

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