Ash trees account for almost two percent of the tree species in the state of Virginia. They probably account for a larger percentage here in the New River & Roanoke Valley since they are not as common in the eastern region. Ash trees are magnificent shade trees that can reach an enormous size comparable to any of our largest oak trees. This tree below is a champion tree growing at Mount Vernon in Alexandria, Virginia. Despite its size, it is no match for the emerald ash borer. Within several years this tree would be dead were it not for preventative treatments specifically targeted to protect it from the ravenous appetite of the borer.
How long has Emerald Ash Borer Been here?
Emerald ash borer was first discovered in Blacksburg in Spring of 2016. Last year EAB was found for the first time also in the County and City of Roanoke, City of Salem, and the counties of Montgomery, Pulaski, Wythe, and Tazwell. But has it really just arrived? Not exactly. Emerald ash borer can infest a tree for several years before signs of its damage is detected. I found one ash tree last year in Radford that was completely destroyed by EAB where the brood adults had already emerged and moved on. I believe it is safe to say that EAB has been lurking in the shadows for 3 years or more. BTW, this same property had another ash tree with no sign of infestation, but rest assured, its time will come. Symptoms can change within a matter of weeks, thanks to our feathered detectives doing our dirty work.
Case in point. This ash tree below showed no sign of EAB infestation as of July of last year. Forward five months to November and look what I discovered. See the off white markings on the left trunk? This is not normal for a healthy tree. What you see is evidence of woodpecker feeding activity. Woodpeckers are smart and can hear the borers chewing beneath the bark. If you see these markings that is a tell tale sign that you have an infested tree.
Case in point. This ash tree below showed no sign of EAB infestation as of July of last year. Forward five months to November and look what I discovered. See the off white markings on the left trunk? This is not normal for a healthy tree. What you see is evidence of woodpecker feeding activity. Woodpeckers are smart and can hear the borers chewing beneath the bark. If you see these markings that is a tell tale sign that you have an infested tree.
Below is a closeup of the feeding damage from EAB. Notice the interior bark that has been exposed by woodpeckers. Notice also the exposed EAB feeding gallery near the middle of the picture.
What should I do if I see damage ?
If you see this type of damage on the trunk of your ash tree then your trees is infested with emerald ash borer. If you do not see this type of damage on your tree, you should still assume that YOUR TREE IS LIKELY INFESTED and at the very least will become infested this year. Either condition should elicit one of two responses: protection or removal. The tree will need to be treated to eradicate the infestation. Proper treatment will protect your tree if it has not suffered more than 30% defoliation. The alternative to treating your ash tree will be to remove the tree because it will die. Dead ash trees quickly lose strength and should be considered dangerous.
How do I treat my ash trees?
At Total Tree Health Care we are trained and qualified to safely and effectively administer pesticides that will target EAB beneath the bark. Our treatment techniques are safe for you you and your family including your pets. Trunk injection technology allows us to inject a precise amount of pesticide into the tree's vascular system where it is transported by the tree to all the feeding sites of EAB. The treatment option below is our best value and offers three years of protection between treatments.
Call us today for a free consultation to determine the best management options for you and your trees.
