Protecting Ash Trees
One of the greatest invasive pest threats currently facing Vermont’s trees is the Emerald Ash Borer, an insect that feeds on and destroys ash trees. Learn more about the services we offer to protect your ash trees, or contact us for a free invasive pest management consultation.
Invasive pest management is an important aspect of tree health care. All About Trees owner and team leader Bob Everingham is an ISA Certified Arborist (NE-6289A) and a Vermont Forest Pest First Detector. He holds Vermont pesticide certification #1426-4543 and is Invasive Insect Management-certified.
Emerald Ash Borer: How We Can Help
Emerald ash borer (EAB) is an invasive insect that feeds on all species of ash trees. It was accidentally introduced to this continent in Michigan in 2002, and since then has killed all the unprotected ash trees in large areas of the Midwest.
Here in Vermont, ashes comprise roughly 10% of our hardwood trees. Although there is little to be done for large tracts of ash forests, trees in our landscapes and yards can be reliably protected. EAB has arrived in Vermont. State officials recommend homeowners and towns treat ash trees now if they wish to save them. Ash borers only feed on live ash trees, so after their food supply is exhausted, their numbers crash. Intense management is expected to be necessary for approximately 8 years.
The gold standard for treatment is emamectin benzoate. It is applied by being injected into the trunk of the ash tree and taken to where the borer is feeding in the cambium (the layer where nutrients flow up and down). Ash trees are wind-pollinated, so bees aren’t attracted to or exposed to the treatments. A single treatment can be highly effective for two or more years under intense pest pressure, even in very large trees.
Costs of the treatment are based on the diameter of the trunk. In some situations, treatment of an ash tree is more economical than paying to have the tree removed. All About Trees can help map out a strategy to manage the impact of the Emerald Ash Borer on your beautiful, stately trees.
