Whether youâve heard of the Emerald Ash Borer or not, this tiny, metallic green beetle is wiping out Ash trees from Canada to Kansas. The Emerald Ash Borer, also known as EAB, is a mere half inch long and 1/8 inch wide, but it has been on a binge since entering the US through Canada killing millions of Ash trees in both countries. All Ash trees are susceptible to this insect. If you have Ash trees, itâs just a matter of time before they become infested. The first confirmed sighting in Missouri was in Parkville in 2012, then in Wyandotte County the same year. By July of 2013, it had been found in Johnson County. The Emerald Ash Borer is here to stay in Kansas City, so now what?
What Can Be Done to Protect the Remaining Ash Trees?
To date, this bug has killed millions of Ash trees and shows no signs of slowing down. Brought from China originally, it has no natural enemies, which has attributed to its prolific expansion. Scientists and arborists around the country are working on several ways to stop this destructive bug. Some natural enemies native to China have been imported and released. These bio-control agents may eventually provide long-term control, but they are still in the early stages. It appears the only way to protect Ash trees from the EAB for now is with systemic treatments. An insecticide is injected directly into the tree under its bark. It moves up the tree through conductive tissues with the natural flow of water and nutrients. It should be injected during the growth season while the tree is taking up nutrients to make sure it reaches all parts of the tree.
Related Read: Emerald Ash Borer on the Move – Tips for Homeowners
What Can You Do to Save Your Kansas City Ash Trees?
Treatments are available for your Ash tree. The certified arborists at KC Arborist can come to your Kansas City area home and treat your Ash trees. We use the Arbor Jet system and inject it directly into the tree. This treatment will protect your Ash trees for two years before another treatment is needed.
If you need help identifying Ash trees on your property, or just want a quote for treatment, give us a call at (913) 390-0033 or (816) 965-0539.
