Emerald Ash Borer season has returned, and this non-native insect that attacks and kills thousands of ash trees every year is back in business. It was first discovered in 2002 and has since moved to Northern Plains states like Kansas. Here is what you need to know about tree healthcare and Emerald Ash Borer.
What it looks like
The adult Emerald Ash Borer is narrow with an emerald green, 1/2-inch long body. The entire insect is one and 1/4-inches long, and cream or white colored. The head is brown, and the body divided into 10 pieces with appendages that look like pincers.
Why be concerned
The larvae eat the tissue just below the tree's bark. They feed and create tunnels, called galleries, that interrupt water and nutrient transport. They do the most damage in the months of June and July. When the adults emerge they leave D-shaped holes in the bark, feed on leaves, and live for three weeks.
Symptoms of Emerald Ash Borer
The tree canopy will die back starting at the tree top. Other symptoms include new sprouts from the trunk and base of the tree, bark splitting making the galleries visible, the D-shaped exit holes, and more woodpecker activity.
Please contact us for more information about Emerald Ash Borer activity in Kansas City.
#cartwrighttreecare
©iStockphoto.com/jacus