EAB TREATMENT
Despite the challenges presented by the Emerald Ash Borer you can take steps to protect your ash tree. If you elect to treat your ash tree there are several treatment options available. Most insecticides used for EAB control act systemically, which means that the insecticide is transported throughout the trees circulatory system.
SOIL APPLICATION
Systemic insecticides applied to the soil are taken up by the roots and translocated throughout the tree, this can be done by soil injections or by a basil drench. The most common insectide applied to the soil is Imidacloprid. This applicaton should be made when the soil is moist, but not saturated. It is important to rake back any organic matter before a soil drench, because the insectide can bind to the surface of things such as mulch or leaf litter, reducing tree uptake. Injections are sometimes preferred on sloped surfaces to prevent run off. These treatments are recommended yearly and are idealy done in the spring or fall.
Systemic insecticides applied to the soil are taken up by the roots and translocated throughout the tree, this can be done by soil injections or by a basil drench. The most common insectide applied to the soil is Imidacloprid. This applicaton should be made when the soil is moist, but not saturated. It is important to rake back any organic matter before a soil drench, because the insectide can bind to the surface of things such as mulch or leaf litter, reducing tree uptake. Injections are sometimes preferred on sloped surfaces to prevent run off. These treatments are recommended yearly and are idealy done in the spring or fall.
TRUNK INJECTION
Several systemic insecticides can be injected directly into the trunk of the tree. If you have a tree that is infested or a large tree that is in a high risk area it may be the preferred treatment option. The insecticide is applied by injecting it into the root flares of the tree. This treatment is usually good for two years. This method is also preffered when treating trees by water bodies, such as lakes, streams, or ponds. Two main insecticides used with this method are Imidacloprid and Emamectin Benzoate. Recommended timing for application would be early May to mid June.
Other methods less commonly used include non-invasive basil trunk sprays and protective cover sprays.
SHOULD I TREAT MY ASH TREES?
- IS EAB NEAR?
Ash trees within a 15 mile radius of any known EAB infestation are at risk! Treat ash if EAB is reported in your area and you want to try to protect and save your tree. Delaying treatment will result in canopy dieback or tree loss. Treatment outside this area may not be worth doing. However, EAB can be difficult to identify so high value trees outside this area should be considered for treatment as well.
For a map of Minnesota EAB infested areas,
click here!
- AM I READY FOR A LONG TERM
COMMITMENT?
If EAB is in your area, it will remain a constant threat to your ash tree and it is likely that protective insecticide treatments will be needed for the rest of the trees life. EAB treatment is a long term commitment.
- SAVE OR REMOVE AND REPLACE?
Treatment is an ongoing process. Once EAB is present it will remain a threat for years to come. Treatment requires a long term commitment. Already infested trees showing over 50% decline in canopy should be considered too far gone to save. Ash trees provide substantial economic benefits, from increased property value to decreased energy demand. Some prized trees hold personal attachments. Ultimately, it will be up to you to decide the value of each tree your own. Remember, although insecticide treatments can be very effective in protecting your ash tree. No treatment can gaurantee absolute success.
One thing is certain, that whether you treat or replace your ash tree if in a quarantined area something should be done. Doing nothing potentially leaves a breeding ground for more EAB which only furthers the threat of EAB spread throughout the rest of our treasured forests. If a tree is deemed invaluable, replacing now will give you more enjoyable years of quality tree, than replacing later.
To measure the diameter of your ash tree follow the diagram provided.
The price estimate of treating your ash tree will be based off of the trees DBH (diameter at breast height).
For a Free Estimate for EAB treatment or if you have questions contact me, click here now!
The price estimate of treating your ash tree will be based off of the trees DBH (diameter at breast height).
For a Free Estimate for EAB treatment or if you have questions contact me, click here now!
It is possible as a home owner to treat your ash tree with pesticide that is sold for homeowner use. However, these formulations have restrictions on the amount of application that can be used. Therefore, making the pesticide less effective than that of which a commercial applicator is allowed to use. Because larger trees need a higher dosage any home owners wishing to protect trees larger than 15 inch DBH should have thier ash trees treated by a professional.
Eab Info and Great Estates Yard and Tree provides Emerald Ash Borer treatments to ash trees and provides tree care services in all of Central Minnesota and the twin cities metro area. Minnesota ISA Certified Arborist and MN Licensced Pesticide Applicator.
Minnesota cities located within a 20 mile radius of a known eab infestation include, but are not limited to:
Minneapolis, St.Paul, St. Louis Park, Coon rapids, Fridley, Roseville, Richfield, Edina, Hopkins, Golden Valley, Crystal, New Hope, Robbinsdale, Columbia Heights, Shoreview, Arden Hills, Eden Prairie, Bloomington, Spring Lake Park, Moundsview, Blaine, Circle Pines, White Bear Lake, North Oaks, Vadnais Heights, Little Canada, Maple Wood, Oakdale, Falcon Heights, Eagan, Inver Grove Park, Burnsville, Apple Valley, Maple Grove
Minnesota cities located within a 20 mile radius of a known eab infestation include, but are not limited to:
Minneapolis, St.Paul, St. Louis Park, Coon rapids, Fridley, Roseville, Richfield, Edina, Hopkins, Golden Valley, Crystal, New Hope, Robbinsdale, Columbia Heights, Shoreview, Arden Hills, Eden Prairie, Bloomington, Spring Lake Park, Moundsview, Blaine, Circle Pines, White Bear Lake, North Oaks, Vadnais Heights, Little Canada, Maple Wood, Oakdale, Falcon Heights, Eagan, Inver Grove Park, Burnsville, Apple Valley, Maple Grove
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