If you're a Colorado homeowner with ash trees, you need to be on the lookout for two serious threats - Emerald Ash Borer and Chlorosis. These pests and diseases can quickly ruin your trees if you don't take action to prevent them.
What is Emerald Ash Borer?
Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) is a small green beetle that is devastating ash trees across the United States. The adult beetles lay eggs on the bark of ash trees, and when the larvae hatch, they tunnel under the bark and feed on the tree's vital tissues. This effectively cuts off the flow of nutrients and water, causing the tree to die within 1-4 years of infestation.
What is Chlorosis?
Chlorosis is a condition where the leaves of a tree turn yellow due to a lack of chlorophyll. This is often caused by a nutrient deficiency, usually iron or nitrogen. Chlorosis can weaken the tree and make it more susceptible to pests and diseases. In Colorado, chlorosis is a common problem for trees due to our alkaline soils.
Preventing EAB and Chlorosis in Colorado
The good news is there are steps you can take to protect your ash trees from these threats:
1. Monitor for signs of EAB. Look for D-shaped exit holes in the bark, S-shaped feeding galleries under the bark, and dieback in the upper branches.
2. Consider preventative treatment for EAB. Insecticide treatments can be applied to healthy ash trees to kill any EAB larvae before they can destroy the tree.
3. Fertilize with iron. Adding iron supplements to the soil around your trees can help prevent and treat chlorosis.
4. Choose chlorosis-resistant tree species. If you're planting new trees, select species that are less prone to chlorosis, like maple or honeylocust.
5. Water deeply and regularly. Proper watering can help trees better absorb nutrients and fight off chlorosis.
By staying vigilant and taking proactive steps, you can help protect your Colorado trees from the ravages of Emerald Ash Borer and Chlorosis. Don't wait until it's too late - act now to preserve the health and beauty of your urban forest.
303-881-0018
Σχόλια