Emerald Ash Borer
The Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) is a small, slender metallic green beetle approximately 8.5 to 13 mm long. Originally from Asia, this invasive pest has no natural predators here in North America and threatens all species of ash trees in Canada and the United States.
Treescape has assisted hundreds of invested home owners and numerous commercial, public and municipal clients in developing and executing effective treatment strategies to guard against the threat of the EAB. However, if you are late to the party – your options may be limited.
The Emerald Ash Borer Beetle (EAB) was first detected near Detroit, Michigan and Windsor, Ontario in 2002. Since then, it has spread through more than 30 states and 5 provinces (predominantly Ontario and Quebec) at a rate of 40 km per year west to east. Natural Resources Canada has stated that 99% of all ash trees are killed within 8-10 years once the beetle arrives in an area.
EAB was detected in southern Peterborough County in October 2013 and within the City of Peterborough late summer 2014. Treatment programs with the bio-pesticide TreeAzin were initiated early on by the municipality and private land owners to save as many ash trees as possible. Since this time, local studies have shown that EAB numbers are increasing and continue to spread.
I have an Ash tree, what should I do?
First, confirm that the tree you are concerned about is, in fact, a true Ash tree.
Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) only attacks true Ash trees (Fraxinus spp.)
- Medium to large tree
- Compound leaves, typically 7-9 leaflets
- Paddle-shaped seeds
Mountain Ash tree (Sorbus spp.) are NOT true Ash trees.
- Small trees or bushes
- Compound leaves, typically 13-17 leaflets
- Clusters of red/orange berries in the fall
For further assistance with ash ID visit this link
Signs that your tree is infected include epicormic shoots or suckers growing off the main stem, flakey bark/cracks/splits, dead branches and a rapidly thinning canopy.
Please keep in mind that infected trees perish quickly and become unusually brittle making for a potentially messy and complicated removal.
What is TreeAzin™?
TreeAzin™ is an effective remedial or preventative measure in combating EAB. It is a Bio-pesticide derived from Neem Tree extracts. Once injected under a tree’s bark, TreeAzin™ moves through the tree killing EAB larvae that are feeding on the tree’s tissues. It also effectively reduces the fertility and egg viability of feeding adult females.
I have previously treated my Ash trees –
If your tree has been previously maintained with a treatment program then it is recommended that you continue with treatment every two years to try to save your trees.
Please contact info@treescapecanada.ca
I have not previously treated my Ash trees –
If your tree has not been previously maintained with a treatment program, it is likely time to begin looking at removal options for your EAB infested trees. Sadly, beginning a new treatment program is no longer a viable option for protecting Ash trees in the Peterborough area.
Click on any of the following images for more useful information about ash trees and EAB.