Emerald Ash Borers: Identifying The Signs

Emerald Ash Borers. These tiny insects may seem unassuming, but they have the power to devastate entire populations of ash trees, silently causing irreversible damage. Identifying signs of Emerald Ash Borer Instestation are D-shaped exit holes, increased woodpecker activity, and thinning foliage. The alarming truth is that you may already be facing an infestation without even knowing it. Truth be told, I wasn't aware of this pest until I moved to an acreage with ash trees. Once I was made aware, I have my trees treated by a local professional every 2-3 years. This article will explore the identifying signs of the Emerald Ash Borer infestation, equipping you with the knowledge to spot these hidden threats and take action.

First, we will delve into the life cycle and behavior of these destructive pests, shedding light on their sneaky methods of infestation. Then, armed with this understanding, we will uncover the telltale signs that indicate the presence of Emerald Ash Borers. From distinct D-shaped exit holes to crown dieback, we will detail each symptom, ensuring that you can confidently recognize the presence of these invasive insects. Through this comprehensive exploration, you will gain the authority to protect your beloved ash trees and the surrounding ecosystem from the destructive impact of Emerald Ash Borers.

Identifying Signs of an Emerald Ash Borer Infestation

Emerald Ash Borers (EAB) are small, metallic green beetles that are known to wreak havoc on ash trees. These invasive pests have caused massive destruction to ash tree populations across North America. It is crucial to be able to identify signs of an EAB infestation early on, as prompt action can help save your ash trees.

EAB Lifecycle

The Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) undergoes a relatively simple but destructive lifecycle. Here are the key stages:

1. Egg Stage: The EAB lifecycle begins when adult female beetles lay their tiny, rice-grain-sized eggs on the bark of ash trees, typically in crevices or cracks.
2. Larval Stage: After about 1-2 weeks, the eggs hatch, and the larvae bore through the bark and into the tree's cambium layer, which is just beneath the bark. This is where they feed and create winding galleries as they tunnel through the tree's nutrient-conducting tissues. The larval stage typically lasts for one to two years, during which the larvae cause significant damage to the tree.
3. Pupal Stage: As the larvae grow, they pupate within their galleries, forming a cocoon-like structure. This stage lasts for a few weeks to several months, depending on environmental conditions.
4. Adult Stage: Emerging from their pupal chambers, adult EAB beetles chew their way out of the tree, creating distinctive D-shaped exit holes in the bark. These adult beetles are metallic green in color and are about half an inch long. They are active during the summer, typically from May to August, and their primary purpose is to mate and lay eggs on ash trees, continuing the lifecycle.
5. Repeating the Cycle: Adult EAB beetles mate, and the females lay eggs on the bark of ash trees, restarting the cycle. They can travel short distances to find new ash trees to infest, and this cycle continues, causing progressive damage to the infested trees.

It's important to note that the damage caused by EAB larvae tunneling through the tree's vascular system disrupts the flow of water and nutrients, leading to the decline and eventual death of the ash tree if left untreated. Early detection and intervention are critical to combat the spread of this invasive pest and protect ash tree populations.

Recognizing the presence of emerald ash borer

Spotting emerald ash borers can be quite challenging, as they are only about half an inch long and primarily active during summer. However, some signs can indicate their presence:

• D-shaped exit holes: Look for small, rounded or D-shaped exit holes (about 1/8 inch in diameter) on the bark of ash trees. These exit holes are created when adult beetles emerge from the tree.
• Distinctive S-shaped galleries: Emerald ash borers immediately create serpentine tunnels (galleries) beneath the bark. These galleries are a key diagnostic feature for identifying an infestation.
• Woodpecker activity: Increased woodpecker activity on your ash tree can indicate an EAB infestation. Woodpeckers feed on the larvae of these borers, which causes significant damage to the tree bark.
• Splitting bark and crown dieback: As an infestation progresses, the tree's outer bark may start to split, revealing the tunnels made by emerald ash borers. Additionally, the tree canopy may show signs of decline, with branches dying off and leaves wilting prematurely.

Symptoms of ash tree infestation

In addition to the presence of emerald ash borers themselves, there are several symptoms that you should look out for:

• Thinning foliage: Infested ash trees will exhibit a thinning canopy due to the damage caused by the larvae feeding on the inner bark.
• S-shaped exit tunnels: When you peel back the bark, you may notice distinct S-shaped tunnels created by the borers.
• Distinctive yellowing and browning of the leaves: The leaves on infested trees may turn yellow prematurely and eventually die, resulting in browning and leaf drop.
• Increased woodpecker activity: As mentioned earlier, woodpeckers feed on emerald ash borers' larvae. If you notice increased woodpecker activity on your ash tree, it could be a sign of an EAB infestation.

Visual cues to look out for

When inspecting your ash tree for signs of an EAB infestation, keep an eye out for the following visual cues:

• Bark cracks: As the larvae create tunnels beneath the bark, their pressure can cause it to crack.
• Distinctive serpentine galleries: When you peel back the bark, you may see the galleries created by the emerald ash borers. These galleries are often packed with sawdust-like frass.
• Emerald ash borer larvae: If you scrape away the outer layer of the bark, you may come across cream-colored larvae in various sizes.
• Adult beetles: While it is rare to spot adult emerald ash borers, you may encounter them on or near the tree during summer.

By being proactive and vigilant in identifying signs of an EAB infestation, you can take the necessary steps to protect your ash trees.

Check out this video I created about Emerald Ash Borers and the conversation I had with Joel Kayser from Well Rooted Gardens.

Techniques to Protect Ash Trees

Protecting ash trees from an EAB infestation is crucial in preventing their demise. By implementing preventive treatments and choosing the right insecticide, you can effectively safeguard your trees. In this section, we will explore the importance of preventive treatments, the process of insecticide injection, considerations for pollinators, the effectiveness of treatment on healthy vs stressed trees, as well as injecting the insecticide in a closed system with wedge checks.

Importance of preventive treatments

Preventive treatments are vital in defending ash trees against emerald ash borers. These treatments involve the application of insecticides that can deter or kill borers, ensuring the health and vitality of the trees. It is essential to start preventive treatments early, even before signs of an infestation are evident, to maximize the effectiveness of the treatments.

Injection of insecticide for protection

One effective method of administering insecticides is through trunk injection. Trunk injection involves injecting the insecticide directly into the tree, where it is then dispersed throughout the vascular system and offers protection against emerald ash borers. This method allows the tree to take up the insecticide quickly, providing immediate defense against the borers.

Choosing the right insecticide

When selecting an insecticide for emerald ash borer protection, it is crucial to choose one specifically designed to target these pests. Properly registered insecticides, such as those containing active ingredients like emamectin benzoate or dinotefuran, have been proven effective in controlling EAB infestations. Consult with a certified arborist or tree care professional to determine the most suitable insecticide for your ash trees.

Considerations for pollinators

As pollinators play a vital role in our ecosystem, ensuring that the insecticides used to protect ash trees do not harm them is essential. Certain insecticides, such as neonicotinoids, have been associated with negative impacts on pollinators such as bees. Therefore, choosing insecticides deemed safe for pollinators or using alternative protection methods is recommended.

Effectiveness of treatment on healthy vs stressed trees

Preventive treatments are generally more effective on healthy ash trees than on stressed ones. Stressed trees, such as those suffering from drought, nutrient deficiencies, or other environmental factors, may have reduced vascular activity, making it more challenging for the insecticide to distribute effectively. However, even stressed trees can benefit from treatment, as it can help alleviate stress and improve overall tree health.

Closed system with wedge checks for injection

For direct trunk injection, it is recommended to use a closed system with wedge checks. This method involves drilling small holes into the trunk and inserting the insecticide capsules or plugs into the holes. The wedge checks prevent the insecticide from leaking out and ensure that the entire dosage reaches the tree's vascular system, maximizing its effectiveness against emerald ash borers.

Targeting the lower parts of the tree for treatment

When injecting insecticides into ash trees, it is crucial to target the lower parts of the tree. Emerald ash borers typically infest the upper canopy first, so treating the lower trunk and root flare area provides optimal protection. By focusing on these areas, you can effectively intercept and kill the borers before they reach the upper sections of the tree.

Watering as a stress-reducing measure

Proper watering practices are essential to reduce stress on ash trees and improve their overall health. Providing adequate water during dry periods can help trees overcome stress and improve their ability to defend against emerald ash borers. However, it is essential to avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot and other issues. Consult with a certified arborist for personalized watering recommendations based on local climate and soil conditions.

Tree Preservation and Care Services

Regarding tree preservation and care, organizations such as the National Native Landscapes Advocacy (NNLA) and well-rooted Gardens play a crucial role. These organizations provide a range of services to maintain the health and vitality of ash trees and offer educational resources and guidance for preservation.

Role of organizations like NNLA and well-rooted Gardens

Organizations like NNLA and Well Rooted Gardens are dedicated to promoting sustainable landscaping practices and preserving native plant species, including ash trees. Their primary focus is on educating the public about the importance of tree care and providing resources for effective preservation strategies.

Services provided for tree care

Tree care services offered by professional arborists such as Well Rooted Gardens include:

• Consultations: Certified arborists can assess the health and condition of ash trees, provide recommendations for preventive treatments, and offer guidance on proper tree care techniques.
• Tree injections: Qualified professionals can administer insecticide injections following best practices, ensuring the most effective protection against emerald ash borers.
• Tree pruning: Pruning services can help maintain the structural integrity and overall health of ash trees, reducing the risk of branch failure and improving their ability to withstand infestations.
• Soil health assessments: Assessing soil health is crucial for maintaining the vigor of ash trees. Soil testing and analysis can identify nutrient deficiencies or imbalances, allowing for targeted treatments to optimize tree health.
• Water management: Experts can provide guidance on proper watering practices, ensuring that ash trees receive adequate moisture without risking overwatering or other water-related issues.
• Tree removal: In severe cases where infestation and damage have already taken a toll on ash trees, professional tree removal services may be necessary to prevent further spread and ensure safety.

Pros and Cons of EAB Treatment

Pros of EAB Treatment	Cons of EAB Treatment
Preservation of Ash Trees Save valuable trees from EAB. Maintain a healthy landscape.	Cost of Ongoing Treatment Treatment can be expensive, especially for multiple trees.
Aesthetic Value Trees remain healthy and visually appealing. Enhance property value.	Variable Effectiveness Success may vary depending on the tree's condition and care. Not all trees respond equally.
Cost Savings Treatment can be more cost-effective than tree removal and replacement. Avoid the expense of removing and replanting mature trees.	Environmental Impact Some treatments may have negative environmental effects.
Environmental Benefits Contribute to the ecosystem by preserving ash trees. Reduce the need for tree removal and disposal. |	Maintenance Requirements Regular treatments are needed, which can be inconvenient and add to long-term costs.
Professional Guidance Certified arborists can assess, recommend, and apply treatments effectively. Ensure compliance with local regulations and guidelines.	Treatment Duration Treatment duration varies, typically annually. Some treatments may protect protection between two-three years.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Conclusion

Identifying signs of an emerald ash borer infestation is crucial for the timely protection and preservation of ash trees. By recognizing the presence of emerald ash borers and understanding the associated symptoms and visual cues, you can take early action to save these valuable trees. Applying preventive treatments, such as insecticide injection, effectively protects ash trees from EAB infestations. However, it is important to consider factors like the right insecticide choice, pollinators' well-being, the tree's condition, and proper injection methods. By implementing preventive measures early and seeking professional guidance, you can help protect ash trees from the devastating effects of emerald ash borers and ensure their longevity for future generations.

Here are more blog posts about pests: Fungus Gnats: Top 17 Ways To Kill Them And Protect Your Plant

Your Turn

Take action today to protect your ash trees! Learn how to identify and combat Emerald Ash Borer infestations now. Don't wait until it's too late – safeguard your trees and preserve your landscape.”