If your ash trees are looking sickly, or you’ve noticed strange beetles on them, you might be dealing with an emerald ash borer infestation. To date, these insects have killed millions of ash trees across North America. If you suspect an infestation, here’s what you need to know about the pests and the proper tree care to combat them.

What Is an Emerald Ash Borer?

These metallic green beetles are about a half an inch long and were likely transported to the United States from Asia. The first case of the emerald ash borer in the United States surfaced in 2002 near Detroit, MI. Since then, they’ve been spotted in over 35 states, including Ohio.

While the adult insects don’t pose much harm to trees, their larvae do. Emerald ash borers lay eggs inside the cracks and crevices of ash trees’ bark. When the eggs hatch, the larvae feed on the inner bark of the trees, eventually killing them.

How Can You Spot Damage?

Emerald ash borers only attack ash trees and white fringe trees. They start in the upper portion of the canopy, which initially causes cracks in the bark. Trees that have been affected commonly see a lot of woodpecker activity.

Other signs include S-shaped tunnels and small D-shaped emergence holes along the trunk. Since the larvae feed on the inner bark, the trees can’t properly deliver nutrients or water and eventually die off. You’ll first notice the canopy of the tree dying before other sections. If emerald ash borers are spotted early enough, treatment from tree care experts can save the tree.

If you’re dealing with this pest, contact Gray’s Tree Experts in Dayton, OH, for treatment options and further prevention. These tree care specialists have over 60 years of experience and are fully insured. They even offer 24-hour emergency service. Visit their website to learn more, and call (937) 260-2447 for a free consultation and quote.