Sweetgum Trees

Question

Recently, I’ve seen redbellyed woodpeckers tapping a sweetgum tree in my yard. I Looked, and there are hundreds of holes from this activity. Is there a problem common to this in the central Illinois area? What are my options?

Bob Miller

Answer 1

Unfortunately, this can cause severe damage to your tree. This can be quite a difficult problem to correct. If the tree is short enough to reach and spray with something, then you can try boiling sliced hot peppers in water. Strain, and spray as much of the tree as possible.