In recent years, a beetle known as the Emerald Ash Borer (Agrilus planipennis) has moved into several states in the U.S., including Kansas. While the Emerald Ash Borer is native to Asia, it has found its way to our country, some believe through transport in wood packing materials. Regardless of how it got here, this is a beetle that literally threatens the lives of ash trees. In fact, many sources say that it is responsible for the destruction of tens of millions of trees across the Midwest and northeast.
If you are an eastern Kansas homeowner with ash trees in your yard, it is important to look for symptoms of infestation. These symptoms are fairly obvious, and include:
- Exit holes that are D-shaped
- Foliage that appears thin, yellow, or wilted
- Increased woodpecker presence
- Shoots growing from the tree’s trunk or its roots, sometimes with leaves that appear larger than normal
How do Emerald Ash Borers get into your ash trees? Infestations don’t spread far on their own, because the adult beetles only fly short distances. For the most part, these destructive beetles are unknowingly brought in with ash wood containing larvae of the beetles. This can happen when you bring in firewood, branches, logs, or even chips (composted or uncomposted) – any part of an ash tree may be the culprit. The important message here? Buy firewood, compost, and other wood materials locally – and inspect to ensure there is no presence of disease/infestation.
What should you do if you discover your ash tree(s) are infested with the Emerald Ash Borer?
Unfortunately, any trees that are infested must be cut down and the wood disposed of. At the present time, there is no known “cure” or treatment that will eliminate these pesky (and deadly) beetles.
Felling a tree is something that should be done only by a professional, particularly when a tree is large, located close to your home, or growing in a dense area populated by other trees so that damage to those trees can be avoided. Even when a tree is in an open area, there is a real danger it will not fall in the direction you want it to fall, putting your own safety and others’ at risk.
It’s an unfortunate fact that the Emerald Ash Borer can wreak havoc on your ash trees, which must be removed. At A & E Tree, our professionals are fully insured so you can have peace of mind knowing that you have the right experts for the job. If you suspect your ash trees have been infected, give our Kansas City tree removal professionals a call today.
