Keys to Managing Emerald Ash Borer Infestation in Your Ash Trees

As mentioned before on this blog, the emerald ash borer (EAB) has been detected in North Texas. If you own any ash trees, they could become infested. And while infestation is not certain, we recommend that you make an inventory of the ash trees on your property. Monitoring them for signs and symptoms of EAB is key to preserving healthy trees that are worth saving.

How do you know if your tree has EAB?

The little green beetle can be difficult to spot. Branch tip dieback is a symptom as well as D-shaped exit holes on the trunk or branches. If in doubt, call an ISA certified arborist to inspect your ash tree.

What can you do once the tree has EAB?

Once the presence of EAB has been confirmed, you have a decision to make. You can either attempt to prolong the life of the tree with a professional insecticide treatment every 1 to 2 years, or you can have the tree removed.

Wood from trees infested with EAB

It is believed that EAB spread to the United States from Asia on wood shipping crates. Therefore, the USDA strongly discourages the transportation of firewood or mulch made from infested ash trees. It is best to use or dispose of the wood close to the source.