How do I kill the hemlock woolly adelgid?

Question

Looking for an inexpensive, environmentally safe way to get rid of the Hemlock Woolly Adelgid Aphid. Hopefully easy to apply and with no toxic residue.

Answer 1

Eggs & crawlers of hemlock woolly adelgid are readily dislodged from the young hemlock twigs by wind and rain. Most of these dislodged individuals are unable to find their way back onto the tree and die. Therefore, directing a strong stream of water at infested branches periodically during April through June may be of some useful approach to managing hemlock adelgid populations. Clipping heavily-infested twigs from branches will also reduce adelgid populations on a tree. However, extensive clipping may have undesirable effects on the appearance and health of the tree

Hemlock wooly adelgid are difficult to control because the fluffy secretions protect it from pesticides. Late October is a good time to attempt control as the second generation begins to develop. Insecticidal soaps and horticultural oils are effective for HWA control with minimal harm to natural predators. Horticultural oil can be applied during winter and before new growth emerges in the spring. Oil sprays can damage hemlock during the growing season.

Trees that are growing in poor sites or experiencing stress from drought and other agents succumb to adelgid attack more quickly. Water should be applied slowly so that the roots will be soaked thoroughly

Removing dead and dying branches and limbs from hemlock will promote new growth by allowing more light to reach the foliage, and will reduce the likelihood of attack by other insect pests and diseases

stop fertilize until HWA is under control - fertilized hemlock becomes more heavily infested and more severely injured than an unfertilized one.

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Answer 2

My landscaper tried the horticultural oil. It didn't work. then he tried something from a local supplier: Woolly Whacker.

Their label says it's safe for just about anything.

That got rid of them totally, after 2 applications spaced one week apart.