Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) Treatment
What is Emerald Ash Borer?
The Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) is an invasive beetle from Asia. It was first discovered in the United States during the summer of 2002 near Detroit, Michigan. EAB has quickly become one of the most destructive and costly forest insects in urban forest history.
Why are EAB beetles a problem?
EAB chews through the tree’s water and nutrient-conducting tissues, strangling the tree. If there is a high population of EAB in the tree, the leafy canopy in ash trees will start to die. A third to a half of the branches may die in one year.
Signs of an Infestation
EAB larvae tend to cause more damage than adults. Females lay eggs inside the tissue of the tree. Upon hatching, the larvae chew through the underside of the bark, essentially starving the tree of nutrients. Adults feed on and destroy the leaves. Signs of infestation include:
- Dieback in the tree canopy
- New sprouts excessively forming from the tree’s base
- D-shaped holes in the bark where beetles have exited
- Woodpecker damage (they like to feed on the larvae)
- Bark splitting
- Thinning crown
Can I save my trees from the EAB beetles?
In many cases, yes. Ash conservation efforts are stronger than ever, and treatment options are available to protect trees. In fact, when applied correctly, EAB treatment is 85 to 95 percent effective.
Can you treat EAB beetles yourself?
Injection by a professional pesticide applicator is the best option for trees greater than 48 inches in circumference (15 inches in diameter). Sprayed and poured insecticides are not as effective and can drift or leach to surrounding areas anda negatively impact insects and aquatic invertebrate animals. To determine the best insecticide option for your ash tree, contact us!