While most residents worry about termites in their home, there are some species that attack the trees on the property. They can destroy a beloved tree and potentially move to the house. The sooner you detect their presence, the faster tree trimming experts can stop a branch from falling on a bystander or the house. Here are a few ways to tell if these insects have colonized one of your trees.

How to Identify Termites in Your Trees

1. You See Termites in the Vicinity

Start by visually inspecting around the tree. Though small, you may be able to see some of the insects moving down the bark. Also, scan for mud tubes, which are little soil passageways that connect the nest to the tree. Use a twig to remove some mud and see if there are any termites underneath. Lastly, take a shovel and do some light digging at the base of tree—you might spot termites in the soil there. 

2. You Notice Weak or Wounded Bark

Termites are drawn to trees because they feed on the cellulose. Once they’ve chewed through an area, you may notice indented lines veering in different directions. Bring a pen or twig with you to poke the bark in a few places—if it yields quickly, the termites have likely already been feeding there and the wood is growing weak. When they’ve made enough progress, branches can get so weak that they fall, so you should contact a tree trimming specialist as soon as possible. 

3. Locate the Nest

Generally, termites take residence in their nests, which consist of moist wood, soil, and saliva. These structures are usually located at the base of tree, and in some cases hidden in a hollow place inside the wood. If you detect more than one nest, the infestation is at a larger scale and a tree trimming professional will need to go to work quickly to stop branches from falling. 

If you have any questions about your trees, call Childers Tree Service in York, SC, for assistance. This family-owned business has been a pillar of the community for 15 years. They offer services ranging from tree trimming to stump grinding. The staff is devoted to their customers and will do everything they can to boost a tree’s health. To receive a free estimate, call (803) 627-3157. Learn more about the company by visiting their website.