Ash Trees Will Likely Survive the Emerald Ash Borer Threat

Ash trees all across Ontario are dying because of the emerald ash borer, but there may be hope for these trees. Since this invasive species first came to North America in 2002, it has been chewing through local ash trees to a devastating effect. Find out how there may still be hope for the local ash trees and how Martin’s Tree Service can help you keep the trees throughout your property safe. Don’t let the emerald ash borer in Ontario infest and kill your ash trees; work with a leader in local tree services to protect your trees and your lawn.

Why Do Some Ash Trees Survive the Emerald Ash Borer?

The Canadian Forest Service, together with the U.S. Forest Service, has discovered a new phenomenon they’re calling “lingering ash.” These ash trees are stubbornly holding on and surviving an emerald ash borer infestation. Because these trees endure and continue to thrive, this invasive species may not cause ash trees to become extinct in North America.

Lingering ash trees are typically green and white ash. Not all of these species survive, but there are remnants that do. Researchers are looking at the specific genetic traits that may cause these rugged trees to cling to life.

Currently, it appears that there are specific genetic traits that allow these few trees to survive. Learning more about the genetics involved could be the first step to finding an effective treatment or prevention option for emerald ash borer infestations in Ontario.

Researchers are still trying to determine how lingering ash trees are resisting the emerald ash borer in Ontario. There are three basic ways that a tree can fight off an infestation:

It isn’t clear how some green and white ash are protecting themselves from emerald ash borers. They may be vigorous enough to survive having eggs laid, larvae hatch and adult emerald ash borers emerge. Another explanation is that some features of these trees make them unfavourable for adult females to lay their eggs. Finally, the trees may actively attack larvae or remove the necessary nutrition for them to grow into adults.

What Does This Mean for the Future of Ash Trees?

There is hope for ash trees in your area. Whether you currently have an ash tree that is dying or you’ve never had emerald ash borers on your property, this research may uncover the ways that we can better protect this at-risk tree species. If researchers can find the genetics responsible for lingering ash, you may be able to plant resistant ash trees on your property or treat your current trees to prevent them from being infested and killed.

If it’s too late and one of your ash trees has died, you need professional tree removal services. Our team at Martin’s Tree Service can inspect trees on your property and recommend pruning or removal before these trees become a liability. You don’t need to remove all your ash trees if you’re concerned about an emerald ash borer infestation, but dead trees could cause significant property damage or personal injury if they blow over in a strong wind. Dead, standing ash trees should be safely removed both to reduce the risk of falling and to prevent the spread of emerald ash borers throughout Ontario.

How Can I Protect My Ash Trees?

At Martin’s Tree Service, we’re committed to keeping your property safe. Contact us if you have additional questions about your ash trees. There may be some treatment options available or, if it’s too late, we can safely remove dead ash trees from your property. Enjoy a safe, beautiful view without dead or dying ash trees and the threat of the emerald ash borer.