Insects

Emerald Ash Borer is still our greatest concern in Norther Colorado.  It has a foothold in almost every town and city here.  Unlike many insects, Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) will attack any ash tree regardless of health or age and infestation leads to death of the tree.  If you want to keep your ash trees they should be treated.  There are many insecticides that can be used to treat EAB but in almost every situation one insecticide is favored, Emamectin Benzoate which is effective for three years per application.  It has a higher efficacy then other insecticides, more persistent, and the most cost effective.  Treeage R10, our preferred formulation of Emamectin Benzoate,  allows for optimal uptake without the potential of bark separation that can occur with more dilute formulations commonly used.  It can be applied throughout the growing season.  Early spring applications will also control adult EAB as they feed upon leaves but only for the year of treatment.  This can be advantageous when fighting concentrated populations of EAB as a community.  

IPS Engraver Beetle has become much more common over the past several years due to the stress put on trees from the drought.  Attacking spruce trees, it initially shows as die back at the top of the tree and quickly moves down the tree causing mortality in as short as one growing season.  Usually only mature trees are attacked but small immature trees have been affected recently.  Consistent watering is very important in preventing infestation but in areas where neighboring trees have already been infested treatment is highly recommended. 

Oystershell Scale can be found on many trees and although it is not usually life threatening, it is a good indicator that your tree needs help.  Appearing as small bumps on the trunk and twigs and most commonly found on Aspen trees.  Small infestations can be simply brushed off but the tree should be inspected to see if there are any environmental stressors affecting the tree.  Large infestations should be treated.