If you have an ash tree in Ohio, you’re at risk for an Emerald Ash Borer infestation.

Adult Emerald Ash Borer – Source: Ohio Dept. of Agriculture

Over the past 10+ years, this invasive species of beetles has been moving across the country, destroying ash trees in their path.  It’s estimated the Emerald Ash Borers have killed more than 40 million ash trees in Michigan and millions more in Ohio, with presence of the pests detected in 27 other states and in Canada.  You’ve likely seen the Public Service Announcements recommending you don’t move firewood, for risk of transporting these insects to new territories.

The damage to trees is from Emerald Ash Borer larvae that grow beneath the bark of trees, feeding while developing and preventing the tree from moving its water and nutrients and leading to tree death.

While preventing an infestation is not easy, detecting Emerald Ash Borer presence and treating ash trees as soon as possible can prolong the life of your tree.

Identifying Emerald Ash Borer Presence

There are a series of telltale signs of Emerald Ash Borer presence, which include:

• Small sawdust-like piles at the base of your ash tree
• D-Shaped bore holes in the tree trunk
• Tree sprouting saplings close to the base or trunk
• Tree defoliated from the top down

If you think your tree has been infested by Emerald Ash Borers, contact a local tree expert like DLL Landscaping & Tree Service so trained arborists can advise you on your options.

Treatment Options

There are chemical and pesticide treatments available to prolong the life of an ash tree with an Emerald Ash Borer infestation.  Talk to a tree expert to determine if treatment will help your ash tree.

By the time an infestation is detected, it might be too late to save the tree making tree removal necessary.

If you have ash trees and would like a free evaluation to determine presence of Emerald Ash Borer, contact our team today.