My fruit trees have a cluster of black hard shell eggs.?

Question

My peach tree have a cluster of black hard shell eggs on every branch. They say that the ants brings them to the trees. How can I get rid of these eggs. How can I prevent them from coming again.

Answer 1

look at 'scale' insects.....

http://woodypest.ifas.ufl.edu/scales.htm

specifically 'tulip tree scale'... but might see another that fits your description, so check them all.....

scales secret a 'honeydew' like aphids do, that ants find attractive.... the ant's don't bring them, but they will take advantage of them if they're on the tree....

I suggest a trip with an example of the 'eggs' you see, to the County extension office near you..... you'll find them in your phone book.... under the name of your county or  with your state University.....as co=operative extension service office.... they can identify and give ideas for fixing the problem having the real thing in hand.... I can only guess from here.... good luck!

Answer 2

If they have a thick web around them its web worm and the only way to get rid of them is to physicaly remove them.To prevent some people put foil around the base in hopes the worms can't climb over it but I don't think it works.