Insects around the world come in many unique sizes and colours. But tree boring insects all have one thing in common, they can be seriously destructive to trees. Borer insects tunnel into trees to feed on the inner wood.
Depending on the type of insect, symptoms can vary. However, in general, all of these insects create holes in tree bark, leave behind sawdust or sap and cause branch dieback and leaf discolouration. They can all ultimately kill the tree, and then you will be left having to call in tree removal Kitchener experts.
Detecting Insects
The first step in defence against tree boring insects is knowing how to detect them. Many of these insects attack a wide range of trees, but they normally seek out already stressed ones. This means they tend to be attracted to trees that have been affected by drought, disease, or even one with a pruning wound.
Healthy trees are not off the hook for boring insects either. Non-native borers like the emerald ash borer will make their home in a tree no matter their health condition. This is why it is essential to keep an eye out for tree borers on any and all trees that may be susceptible.
Emerald Ash Borer
The emerald ash borer is one of the most invasive species that is currently found in the region. This pest has been found all over Ontario and is becoming a severe problem in the province.
In the early stages of infestation, you may notice visible cracks on main branches in the canopy. As the infestation grows, thin 2 – 5 inch vertical slits in the bark and D-shaped holes will appear while the canopy starts to thin.
Another common borer found in the area is the metallic wood borer. This type of beetle is known for its iridescent shell, which can make it easier to spot on a tree. Similar to the emerald ash borer, the metallic wood borer will leave behind signs of an infestation, including long oval holes in the bark of a tree larger than 6mm in length.
No matter what type of borer you have in your tree, the most obvious sign will always most likely be the holes they cut into trunks, branches, and stems. The sawdust material, called frass, will also be found on branches below these holes.
Tree Borer Management
Contact Martin’s Tree Service as soon as you spot any symptoms. Treatment for tree borers can be difficult if adult insects are already present and laying eggs in the tree. It may be easier to replace trees that have extensive damage to the trunk rather than treat since the internal damage can be extensive after just a few seasons.
If you have a tree with an active infestation of borer insects, it is essential to take preventative steps to protect other trees in the area. Trees that are not infested or only have a few holes may be protected by improving care. If you have trees with holes or suspect that you may have a problem with borer insects, contact your local tree removal Kitchener experts today!
Steve Martin
