There are two primary options when it comes to dealing with an Emerald Ash Borer infestation. The most drastic choice is removing the tree altogether. This is usually only recommended if the tree is so irreparably damaged that it is dying and becoming an eyesore or is a threat to other trees, nearby power lines or structures.
Often, the most affordable Emerald Ash Borer treatment is chemical insecticides. If keeping the tree in place is important to you, this is the best option. These treatments should be done between March and mid-June to properly kill the Emerald Ash Bore larvae. Depending on your situation and personal preference, you can choose between insecticides that are injected into the tree trunk, soaked into the ground around the trunk, or applied with a sprayer on the entire tree. These treatments need to be repeated to be as effective as possible, so you will need to remember to apply the treatment every year or two to keep the Ash Borers from coming back.
EAB Insecticides used:
#1. Mauget System for smaller trees: Inject and using Capsules filled with Imicide insecticide
#2 TREEage Arborjet System for larger trees: Injection using IV pressurized system with Emamectin Benzoate insecticide
#3 Emamectin Benzoate is a new product which claims to provide up to 3-year protection against the EAB. While still relatively new to our area, this new insecticide has shown good results in eastern US states.
At Liberty Lawn & Landscape, we pride ourselves on using the best and most updated products on the market but at the same time we are very leery about using our customers as “Guinea Pigs” for new products. We will use the Mauget Injection System again in 2019 and if test results for Emamectin Benzoate come back positive in eastern Nebraska in 2020 we will be switching treatment programs accordingly. I am told the costs per application may be slightly higher using this new system, but the overall cost will be much less.
If you think you might have an EAB infestation, here’s what you do:
Have your tree(s) evaluated for their current health. It is important to have an expert evaluate the condition of your trees and determine the source of your concern. The experts at Liberty Lawn and Landscape will do the evaluation free of charge.
Assess the importance of the tree (or trees) to your overall landscape design. If it’s determined that the tree (or trees) in question don’t add value to your outdoor space, it might make more sense to opt for removal. It makes no sense to treat a tree that has no relative value to the property. Again, the certified professionals at Liberty Lawn and Landscape have years of experience and will help you evaluate your project and make recommendations as to the best course of action.
The USDA makes the following recommendations on their website:
- Don’t move firewood. EAB larvae can survive hidden in the bark of firewood. Remember: buy local, burn local.
- Inspect your trees. If you see any sign or symptom of an EAB infestation, contact your State agriculture agency.
- Talk to friends, neighbors and co-workers about EAB and what they should be aware of on their trees.
- Ask questions. If you receive ash nursery stock or firewood, know its point of origin and your supplier, as larvae could be hiding under the bark.
- Know State and Federal regulations. Make sure you understand regulations that govern your state and those you may visit.
- Know the quarantines in your area and learn to leave hungry pests behind
Liberty Lawn & Landscape Inc will:
#1 Evaluate the health and viability of the Ash Tree(s)
#2 Measure the circumference of the ash tree and produce treatment estimate
#3 upon approval of estimate, treat the ash tree(s)
If you have ash trees in Lincoln, Nebraska, early detection and prompt treatment can save your trees before they die. At Liberty Lawn and Landscape, we have professional licensed state of Nebraska Arborists who can evaluate your trees and let you know more about treatment options for your unique situation. Contact our team of professionals today to schedule a free evaluation of your property.