As indicated by their name, spruce bark beetles only attack spruce trees. As the weather gets warmer, the beetles look for a new tree where they can bore through the wood and lay their eggs. Spruce beetles prefer diseased or weakened trees, and they’ll damage them even more by feeding on the tissues that provide nutrients for the tree to thrive. Eventually, these insects will do extensive damage to the trees, and an infestation will require tree removal.

How to Manage Spruce Bark Beetles

What Are the Signs?

A noticeable sign of an infestation is dust collecting around the base of a spruce tree. This dust is created when beetles bore through the bark. You may notice the development of pitch tubes too, which are formed when the tree tries to push the beetles out by overproducing pitch, a sap-like substance. Woodpecker activity will also increase, and the birds will pull away sections of bark to access the beetles. Additionally, the tree’s needles may turn yellow, followed by a reddish-brown color.

How Can You Prevent Them?

Spruce bark beetles look for injured trees, so it’s important to protect them from damage. Avoid tree trimming and pruning from May to July when the beetles are active. If you have spruce firewood, don’t stack it near a spruce tree, as the beetles may be living in your burn pile. Water your trees when the weather is especially dry to keep them healthy. If you’re worried about a particular spruce tree on your property, contact a tree service contractor who can apply a professional spray treatment.

How Can You Stop Them From Spreading?

If you have spruce beetles on your property, tree removal is the only effective option to avoid them from spreading, so schedule an appointment immediately after you spot the signs of an infestation. 

If you have a spruce bark beetle infestation or need tree removal, Greatland Tree Service in Anchorage, AK, will help. For over 15 years, their professional, precise, and safe employees have been serving clients on residential and commercial properties. For more information on their services, visit them online and schedule an appointment by calling (907) 336-8733.