Deciding Whether to Treat an Emerald Ash Borer Infestation
There was once a time when an emerald ash borer was a death sentence for a tree. However, with improvements in the treatment of this pest, there is increasingly no reason for infested trees to be disposed of. Still, you must make a decision on whether to remove or treat your tree.
Trees That Must Be Treated
The treatment only needs to be applied to ash trees that are within 15 miles of an emerald ash borer site. The insecticides need to be used properly to ensure the long-term health of the tree.
Deciding Whether to Treat a Tree
While the treatment has become less expensive, it is still necessary to limit how many trees are being treated to keep costs low. Ash trees that are kept in good condition can increase property values, justifying a treatment. However, if a particular ash tree is not in good condition, it may not increase property values enough to justify a treatment.
The ash tree's location and its appearance throughout the seasons should be taken into consideration when deciding whether to protect an ash tree. For example, if the tree has a good shape and a great fall color, it may be worth preserving. Some ash trees are less valuable because they are not aesthetically pleasing or are in an inconvenient location, such as nearby a power line.
Some trees may develop structural damage for whatever reason. This could be the result of a previous infestation or another incident, such as strong winds. These types of trees should not be protected from the ash borer and may instead need to be removed both to contain the infestation and to avoid the risks that come from a falling ash tree.
Working with an Arborist
The best way to find out if it's time to treat or remove an ash tree is to meet with an arborist. He or she will be able to assess the tree to help you determine whether the sentimental and property value of the tree justifies the treatment cost.
If you are not sure if you have an infestation, your local government might track tree infestations in your area. Therefore, you can be preemptive when dealing with ash trees to make sure that you are not forced to remove a tree because it is too late. Otherwise, your tree might become part of the hundreds of millions of trees killed by this insect.
Contact an tree service company who can administer emerald ash borer treatment to best protect your ash tree.
