How to Plan and Prepare for Emerald Ash Borer This Spring.

Emerald Ash Borer is an infectious tree disease that is spreading rapidly throughout North America. Locally, it is a huge problem in Minnesota which is why we’ve created our personal preparation guide on how to ensure you are ready for its imminent arrival.

1. Keep an eye on your trees and their physical changes:
Catching an Emerald Ash borer infestation at an early stage is crucial, which is why it is very important to take preventative measures first. Chemical treatment for EAB may not be an option for the tree if you are noticing increased Woodpecker activity, bark splits, crown dieback, peeling or shedding, this likely means that the tree is already infected and it may be too late to apply the relevant treatment. It is thus imperative to monitor tree health within your yard throughout the year. Inspecting trees in the yard could be a monthly or weekly duty depending on your time availability.

2. Book a call with a local Arborist
If you believe you have an EAB infection book a call with a local Arborist to discuss an approach or treatment plan. This is an important step in determining the right course of action to avoid a costly Emerald Ash Borer infestation.

  • By chatting with an expert, you can ask any questions that you may have. Reassurance may also be provided regarding the health of your yard, along with an estimate of costs and the urgency of the infestation.

  • At Birch Tree Care, you can call for a no-obligation quote to work out the best approach to your EAB issue.

3. Self-pruning
Is another course of action that can be taken in order to increase the overall health and condition of a tree.

  • Pruning is important because Ash trees generally provide a lot of deadwood in the lower canopy when they are healthy anyway.

  • If this is an option that you take, pruning is recommended between October 1 and May 1, in order to reduce the risk of EAB transport in the wood waste, as this is the period when the Emerald Ash Borer lies dormant.

EAB-proof your home today
These are some easy ways to prepare for EAB in your yard, however, at Birch, we always recommend using a professional to “EAB-poof” your yard and trees. By using an EAB expert who has the required knowledge and expertise, you stand a better chance of safeguarding your yard from future EAB infestations, whilst keeping the peace of mind that local expert arborists are treating your yard with the utmost respect and professionalism.

Email: info@WeAreBirch.com
Call: 651.504.0533