Do You Have A Tree That Is Infected With Emerald Ash Borer?
Is there a tree on your property that is gradually declining? Do you fear that it is infested with emerald ash borers? Here are some signs to look out for that are a clear indication that the tree needs to go.
The Crown Of The Tree Is Dying
You may notice that the tops of your ash tree no longer grows new leaves during the spring. The amount of dead branches eventually grows over time, and you eventually have a tree that only has brittle and bare branches. This is an indication that you could have an emerald ash borer infestation, and should start looking for other symptoms that would confirm your suspicions.
The Tree Has Epicormic Branching
Another problem that can affect your trees is epicormic branching. This is when you have shoots that pop out of an epicormic bud that is found in the trunk of the tree. It's not always a sign that you have emerald ash borer in the tree, but it is a good indication if these bugs exist. You may have some other type of insect in the tree that can cause this type of sprouting to happen, and the tree may still be safe from long-term damage if you don't notice other symptoms.
The Tree Has Bark Splitting
Bark splitting is a more significant sign of emerald ash borers in a tree, and it is a definite reason to be concerned. This problem is when you have tunnels that form an "S" shape in the tree, which can be clearly seen in places where the bark has come off the tree. It's such a unique pattern that is associated with emerald ash borers that you need to watch out for. If you have only a few instances of bark splitting, then you may be in the early stages of an infestation. However, if there are multiple tunnels under the wood that overlap each other, then you know you have a much bigger infestation on your hands.
The Tree Had D-Shaped Exit Holes
The beetle that is causing all this damage will also make exit holes in the tree, which look like the shape of the letter "D". There will be one flat side on the opposite of a rounded side. Woodpeckers tend to make these holes larger when they are looking for the insects inside the trunk, so a small hole may be larger and more round due to the damage that the woodpecker causes.
Contact a tree service if you think your trees have emerald ash borers.