Woolly Aphids on Apples Trees

Has anyone experienced colonies of woolly aphids on their apple trees? Supposedly there are several species that prey on them: lacewings, hover flies, ladybugs, parasitic wasps. This time of year (December) I don't see many ladybugs around and I'm unfamiliar with the other species on that list.

I only have two young apple trees I bought from a local home/garden center. I could just wipe the bugs off with my hands, but I wonder what permies thought about how to encourage predator insects instead...

High Lew. I would encourage you to Google “I think Permaculture insect control has failed me.”  I started that thread a few years ago. My frustration level was high and I was ready to chemical the place up! My nerves were calmed as I was educated by some top notch folks here on the forums. Now I’m still amazed as predators show up to take care of my issues then move on. The good thing is those aphids aren’t the worst bug problem you could have. Give it some time and let nature work for you.

I spray horticultural oil in the winter and spinosad in the summer for woolies. You must use a tolerant rootstock too. I use Geneva 41 or M111

john@quincynursery.com