Proper tree care requires a passing knowledge of the issues that can affect the health of your trees and shrubbery. When it comes to ash trees, several insects can damage the tree and affect its overall well-being. The emerald ash borer is one such insect; here’s what you need to know about this destructive pest.

About Emerald Ash Borers

Thanks to its small size, the emerald ash borer made its way to the U.S. from China virtually undetected. Although it’s no larger than a U.S. dime, it can do plenty of damage to ash trees throughout the country. May is a busy season for ash borers because this is when the adults typically begin infesting trees. The males burrow into the wood so that the females can lay their eggs inside. Even though ash trees are abundant throughout North America, emerald ash borers have destroyed tens of millions of them in recent years.

How to Identify Them

Adult emerald ash borers earn their name from their green metallic shells. They’re typically ½ inch long and are up to 1/8 of an inch wide. The eggs are only 1/25 of an inch in size and are brown or rust-colored. The larvae are also distinctive in that they’re all white with flat heads and several body segments. Once the larvae burrow their way beneath the bark, they feed on the wood. In addition to leaving a recognizable trail, this type of feeding also disrupts the tree’s ability to draw nutrients from rainwater and ground moisture.

What to Do If Your Trees Have Them

As you conduct tree care maintenance, be wary of the signs of an ash borer infestation. They include thinning or dying tree crowns, suckers at the base of the trunk, split bark, tunneling beneath the bark, D-shaped holes, and woodpecker visits. If you suspect you have emerald ash borers, call an arborist or the USDA Emerald Ash Borer Hotline at (866) 322-4512. Note the location of the infected trees if they’re not on your property. Taking pictures of the affected trees can also help.

To reduce the chance of spreading a suspected infestation, only buy firewood in your local area. Do not transport wood across state lines, and ensure the wood has been kiln-dried. Burn any firewood you buy within the same season to guarantee ash borers don’t spread to living trees in the summer.

J & J Tree Trimming offers the tree care services you need to keep your trees and shrubs healthy and beautiful year-round. Located in Clinton, MI, the business is managed by Josh Denman and John Colvin, who are each trained and experienced in proper tree care practices. To explore the full range of services they offer, visit their website. Call (517) 358-7874 to request service.