Source: USDAgovOver the past decade, the Emerald Ash Borer (agrilus planipennis) ravaged countless ash trees in the eastern half of the United States. Unfortunately for the residents of Johnson County, this seemingly insatiable pest has finally made its first appearance in the Kansas area.
A small, dark-green, bullet shaped beetle, the Ash Borer is not actually dangerous as an adult. Instead, it goes from tree to tree laying over 100 eggs. Once these eggs hatch, the larvae then proceed to bore into the succulent center of the ash tree.
Controlling this pest is problematic and usually involves quarantining the movement of ash wood from one area to another. While insecticides will kill the insect, the infestation is so widespread that poisons are not a viable option. The best solution to the Emerald Ash Borer problem is for homeowners to be attentive to their own trees and deal with the problem on an as-needed basis.
For more information on tree healthcare, or to speak directly to a tree expert, contact the experts at Cartwright Tree Care. You can reach us online or call us directly at 816-965-6758.