Understanding Pest Control For Trees

Trees add beauty and value to your surroundings. They are a source of clean air, shelter, and shade in the summer. However, they are also vulnerable to different kinds of threats, such as pests, diseases, and climate change. One of the most significant threats to ash trees in North America is the emerald ash borer. The emerald ash borer is an invasive species that causes the death of ash trees within a few years of infestation. To prevent this pest from damaging your ash trees, it is essential to take preventive measures. In this blog post, we'll discuss some simple, practical ways you can protect your ash trees from this invasive species.

Identify Your Ash Trees

Before taking preventive measures, it is essential to identify your ash trees. Ash trees have distinct features such as compound leaves with some leaflets, a diamond-shaped bark pattern (when mature), and branching that occurs opposite each other. Make sure you identify these characteristics of your ash trees so that you can take the necessary measures to protect them.

Apply Insecticides

There are several insecticides available to protect ash trees from emerald ash borer infestation. However, it's essential to follow safety guidelines and label instructions when using insecticides. You can hire a professional to apply insecticides to the base of your ash trees or trunk injection to ensure that the tree is adequately protected from EAB infestation.

Plant Diversity

Plant diversity is an important preventive measure against the emerald ash borer. Instead of planting only one or two species, which is common in many suburban landscapes, plant a variety of tree species. This helps to reduce the chances of infestation and can improve the quality of your landscape. By planting a mix of deciduous and evergreen trees, you can create a healthy and diverse ecosystem in your yard.

Tree Removal

If you discover an emerald ash borer infestation on your ash trees, you must remove them as soon as possible. Infected trees are at high risk of collapse, which can be a significant threat to your property and safety. It's essential to hire a professional arborist to remove the infected ash trees safely.

Regular Inspections

The best way to detect the early signs of emerald ash borer infestation is to inspect your ash trees regularly. Watch for leaves that are thinning, yellowing, or dying from the tips of branches. You may also notice D-shaped exit holes on the bark and bark flaking away from the tree. If you see these signs, call a professional arborist to assess the situation.

For more information on emerald ash borer prevention, contact a professional near you.