Emerald Ash Borer

Does the emerald ash borer sound familiar? It's a flying beetle, just over half an inch long, that attacks one type of tree in particular: ash trees. Its larva digs galleries inside and the insect attacks the leaves. The beetle is native to Asia and entered North America in 2002. How does it travel? In ash trees or the raw wood or bark of this species, or in logs, packaging, pallets or crates made of this wood. In Quebec, we are also fighting against this beetle.

Consequences for ash

The time before an infested tree dies usually varies from as little as one year to about 5 years. The determining factors of this time are its age and size. The galleries made by the larvae eventually compromise the circulation of sap, which feeds the trees. Visible signs are balding or early yellowing of the crown or leaves. Damage to the bark may also be visible. Often, a half-attacked tree has to be felled. This is often enough to make the damage irreversible. However, the felling must take place outside the propagation period (mid-March to mid-September). When this happens, it is important to include the removal of the affected trees. Our tree care company can advise you on how to deal with this plague and can cut down and grub the trees as needed.

How to detect the emerald ash borer?

In addition to the external signs already mentioned, there are also holes of about 4 mm, which are made by the insects when they emerge. There can also be holes drilled by woodpecker beaks in search of larvae. Sap may also ooze out; samaras may be very abundant (indicator of stress) or shoots may invade the trunk. Attacks by this moth usually start at the top and work their way down.
 
However, it is important to recognize the cause of any visible sign. Is this really an indication of EAB activity, or are these signs of other insects, disease or even a natural cause: weather or an animal?
 
This is a good reason to call in an expert: identify the right source, and then use the right treatment. If you own an ash tree, you can rely on Emondage Repentigny. Our initial inspection will be free and will be used to provide you with a quote. Call us at 579-795-1014 and ask about our other tree care services at the same time.

Early detection 0f infestation

The key is to intervene very early in the attack process. There is a simple protocol for this: select a branch with certain criteria, debark it, and then check for the presence of larvae. A specialist knows at what time of the year to do this and how to interpret what he sees.

Prevention first

Ideally, you should not have any ash trees on your property. If you do have ash trees on your property, you should take precautions. You can plant a variety of tree species to increase diversity, a resilience factor. And if you heat with wood and ash logs are part of your cords, the borer may well show you that it is indeed the wood it is heating! The preventive measure to take then, is a local supply to avoid a spread between regions.
 
Moreover, transportation from contaminated regions to non-contaminated regions is covered by regulations, which the Canadian Food Inspection Agency is responsible for enforcing. Even vehicles are concerned. And of course, what they're transporting, when it comes to ash, from the trees themselves to what's made from that species.

Detection od diseases and invaders

Of course, the emerald ash borer is not the only insect that can attack your trees, regardless of their species. Other insects and diseases can also be present. Among our tree care services is the detection of diseases and pests. At Emondage Repentigny, we have the knowledge to assist you in this area. To reach us, call 579-795-1014.
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