Master Gardener Decision Support Guide

Trees

Bradford Pear
Leaves

This damage is done by Eriophyid mites. This microscopic mite injects saliva into the leaf tissue resulting in the damage which is largely cosmetic and not likely to cause serious harm to the plant. The mites may be controlled with Sevin insecticide if damage is extensive. But the damage is permanent and spraying will not likely improve the plant appearance.

There are many species of these mites. Since the damage is primarily evidenced by the plant's reaction to injury, the injury is highly variable according to plant species. These mites are specific in their choice of host plants seldom choosing to live on another species. Management for most of these is the same.

For more information
Maple Gall Mites
Eriophyid Mite galls
Eriophyid Mite damage