Emerald Ash Borer: Identification, Prevention, and Management
At Treewerx, we specialize in Emerald Ash Borer management to protect your property’s trees. Based in Cambridge, WI, our certified arborists are equipped to develop customized treatment plans for infested or at-risk trees and expertly guide our customers with preventative measures to help protect your landscape.
What Is the Emerald Ash Borer?
The Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) is an invasive beetle (Agrilus planipennis) that has devastated ash tree populations across North America. Native to Asia, EAB was first detected in the United States in the early 2000s and has since spread rapidly. The beetle's larvae feed on the inner bark of ash trees, disrupting their ability to transport water and nutrients, often leading to tree death.
How to Identify the Emerald Ash Borer
Recognizing EAB infestations early is critical for effective management. Look for these signs:
Adult Beetles: Metallic green beetles about â…“ inch long with an elongated body.
D-Shaped Exit Holes: As adult beetles emerge, they leave distinctive D-shaped holes in the bark.
S-Shaped Galleries: Larvae create serpentine feeding tunnels beneath the bark, visible when the bark is removed.
Crown Dieback: Upper branches begin to thin and die as the infestation progresses.
Epicormic Shoots: Stressed trees may sprout new growth at the base or along the trunk.
Woodpecker Activity: Increased woodpecker activity as they forage for EAB larvae can also indicate an infestation.
Can Infested Trees Be Saved?
In some cases, trees in the early stages of infestation can be treated with professional-grade insecticides. However, heavily infested trees often cannot be saved and should be removed to prevent the spread of EAB to nearby ash trees.
Contact Treewerx for Emerald Ash Borer Solutions
Don’t let the Emerald Ash Borer jeopardize the health of your ash trees. Contact Treewerx today to schedule a consultation and learn how our professional arborists can help safeguard your trees and property.