Trees are home to a myriad of insects, but some can be detrimental to the health of the plant. Emerald ash borers are exotic pests that aren’t native to America, but they have caused significant damage to ash trees. To learn more about these critters and the emerald ash borer injections that treat them, consult the brief guide below. 

What Are Emerald Ash Borers?

Emerald ash borers are beetles that originate from Asia. These half-inch-long insects are recognizable by their metallic green shell. In 2002, they were found in Detroit, Michigan.

It is suspected that they were accidentally brought into the United States in wooden storage on an airplane or cargo ship. Since their introduction into the country, emerald ash borers have been found in 35 states, including Nebraska, as well as several Canadian provinces. 

How Are They Problematic?

These beetles attack various species of ash trees. So far, emerald ash borers have destroyed millions of trees in America. As adults, this invasive insect feeds on the leaves of ash trees, but they don’t cause significant damage.

However, their larvae dig into the tree to eat the inner bark. Their feeding robs the tree from nutrients and moisture, which kills them off, regardless of the tree’s health or age.

What Can You Do About Them?

If your tree is suffering from branch and leaf thinning at its top, split bark, small D-shaped holes, or tunnels beneath the bark, it may have an emerald ash borer infestation. To save your tree, you will need an emerald ash borer injection. A tree care professional will inspect the plant and determine if it is healthy and worth preserving.

The emerald ash borer injection is then administered into the trunk . The treatment targets the larvae beneath the bark. Accurate dosage and timing are necessary to save a tree, so it is imperative to act as soon as you notice a potential problem. You can also protect your trees in advance by seeking an injection if the beetles have been spotted within 15 miles of your property.

If you think you may need emerald ash borer injections to protect your trees, don’t hesitate to reach out to the team at Eden Lawn Care & Tree Service. As the go-to tree care professionals in Lincoln, NE, for more than 30 years, they provide a variety of services to keep your trees, lawn, and shrubbery healthy, including weed and insect control, lawn fertilization, and trimming. Schedule your free estimate today by calling (402) 488-3177 or visit them online to learn more about their services.