Grounds Services, Inc. | Turf, Tree & Shrub Management System: Tree & Shrub: Insect ID: Borers

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borer chemical tree care Borers

Borers are insects (such as beetles or moths) which spend a portion of their development under the bark of certain trees. Many borers do not cause extensive damage to the tree and in fact only attack trees currently weakened by other activity. With that said, their are species of borers that can do extensive damage to healthy trees such as the Emerald Ash Borer or the bronze birch borer.

Carpenterworms Large caterpillars which feed on the trees sapwood under the bark. On infested trees it is easy to see the sawdust and feces which is discarded from the entrance hole (which may reach as large as one-half inch).
Clearwing Borers Clearwing Borers, in their adult stage, resemble wasp (without stingers - pictured to the right) and lack scales on their wings leaving them transparent. The wounds from clearwing borers do not heal and can be an open entry point for fungi and other insects which may further weaken the tree.
Flatheaded Borers Most flatheaded borers prefer to attack dead, dying or highly weakened/stressed trees (though some species will attack seemingly healthy trees). The tree will exhibit defoliation and leaf discoloration, also look for beetle emergence holes. This borer may attack the branch, root or trunk of the tree.
Horntails Typically infestation occurs on dead or dying trees but rarely do these pest need treated since their numbers seldom reach infestation levels. The adults look similar to wasps though are not harmful to humans or animals.
Roundheaded Borers Usually, the Roundheaded Borer attacks dead or weakened trees producing galleries throughout the trees tissue as it feeds. Heavy damage may occur from this pest causing the death of the tree.
Weevils The larvae stage of weevils can cause damage as they feed on the root, stem or seed of the plant. The adult stage will feed on foliage leaving notches on both conifers and deciduous trees.

Trees and shrubs Attacked: All conifers and deciduous trees are susceptible to attacks by borers - though they usually target already weakened, dying or dead trees.
Damage to look for : Exit holes through the bark of the tree Die back, usually starting at the crown Galleries under the bark of the tree	Damage caused by Borer

What homeowners can do:

Keep your trees properly fertilized as most borers prefer weakened or already dead tree
Remove debris, infested logs and tree stumps from the lawn to discourage egg laying and harboring sites
Do not damage the tree with the mower or weed-wacker as this may create openings for beetles or moths to enter
Prune in the winter when insects are not active
Water trees during drought-stressed times
Ensure that when you plant new trees they are suitable for the area you plan to place them
If needed, apply insecticides tot he tree either by foliage spray, soil injection or trunk injection

If you believe your trees or shrubs have been affected with disease or fungus activity, call Grounds Services today for a no-obligations visit at 419-536-4344.