Since its initial discovery in Michigan in 2002, the emerald ash borer (Agrilus planipennis), sometimes known as EAB, has devastated hundreds of millions of ash trees across the US Midwest and East Coast. EAB is now considered the most destructive tree insect pest ever to be introduced into North America and was most likely brought to North America via ash wood pallets or wood packing material.
All North American ash species, as well as non-native ash species that are frequently planted as street and landscape trees are all threatened by this pest. The emerald ash borer gets its name from the vivid metallic green the adults of this bug display. Because the beetles interfere with the tissues that carry water and nutrients to the tree, they produce dieback and canopy thinning. When the beetles emerge in late May or early June, they leave distinctive 1/8-inch-diameter “D”-shaped exit holes in the bark. Heavy infestations can kill trees within a couple of years.
EAB larvae eat through the ash tree’s bark and leave noticeable tracks as they do so. The feeding interferes with the tree’s capacity to move nutrients and water. While bigger infected trees may die in three to four years, smaller trees may perish in as little as one to two years.
The following are indications of an EAB infestation:
• D-shaped exit holes
• Splitting bark
• Tunneling under the bark
• Thinning or dead tree crowns
When a tree has lost 30% or more of its canopy from Emerald Ash Borer activity, removal becomes the best option as treatment effectiveness is basically zero. To securely remove a sick ash tree, it is essential to work with a professional and insured, tree service like Nashville Tree Service NTS. NTS is skilled at the removal of an emerald ash bore infested tree and will properly dispose of the wood in a safe manner.
If you believe you have a tree infested with an emerald ash bore or would like to protect your ash trees from this pest, reach out to us today. Your trees will thank you.