Emerald Ash Borer

Urban Forester Shawn Posey talks about emerald ash borer and the danger they pose to ash trees. The insect bores tunnels in the phloem layer of ash trees. These tunnels cut off nutrient flow and the tree dies in 2-5 years.  While in their native range these insects are not overly harmful, in North America they are decimating the ash population. They are spread through transport of firewood and saplings. Control is very difficult because the insect lives inside the tree. Systemic insecticides or tree injections can be used but are costly. When a tree is infested it does not show any signs of damage until it begins to die. By that time the damage has already been done. Because of this, scouting is very important. If an adult emerald ash borer is seen in the area tree treatments need to begin immediately because it is likely that they are already infected.

April 30, 2016

Related Resources:
Tennessee Dept. of Agriculture Emerald Ash Borer website
Emerald Ash Borer Information Network
Emerald Ash Borer
EAB Homeowner Guide to Insecticide Selection, Use, and Environmental Protection