Emerald Ash Borer Treatments by SavATree

The emerald ash borer (EAB) is a destructive invasive beetle that has killed millions of ash trees across North America. These metallic-green insects lay eggs on ash trees, and their larvae burrow beneath the bark, disrupting nutrient flow throughout the tree.

EAB infestations spread rapidly, and without proper treatment, infected ash trees can die within 3-5 years of infestation.

While EAB was first detected in Michigan in 2002, it has since spread to 36 states and continues advancing. Unlike native insects that primarily attack stressed trees, EAB targets healthy and ailing ash trees with equal vigor. This makes proactive protection essential even for thriving specimens in your landscape.

SavATree’s targeted treatments  can preserve your ash trees and prevent irreversible damage.

Signs of an Emerald Ash Borer Infestation

If you want to guard your trees against EAB, early detection is critical. Look out for these symptoms and contact your arborist if you spot them:

D-shaped exit holes (1/8 inch wide) where adult beetles emerge from your tree trunk, major branches (particularly in the upper canopy), or areas with thinning bark

S-shaped larval galleries beneath the bark

Increased woodpecker activity (woodpeckers feed on EAB larvae and are often active around infected trees)

Canopy thinning & dieback starting at the top of the tree

New shoots growing from the trunk or roots

Bark splits that reveal larval tunnels, which appear etched or grooved into the wood with a zigzagging pattern

These warning signs tell the story of the damage emerald ash borers can inflict have on your tree if left untreated, and they are all strong indicators it may be time to seek the help of a certified and experienced arborist.

What Causes an EAB Infestation?

Emerald ash borer spreads in several ways, most commonly through the transport of infested firewood or logs to new, uninfested areas. Adult emerald ash borers can also fly up to half a mile, allowing them to naturally expand their range.

Some researchers suggest that warming temperatures may be contributing to EAB’s expanding range and faster life cycles. Municipalities across affected regions have implemented quarantines and public education campaigns about firewood transport, but homeowner vigilance remains the first line of defense for private properties.

Professional treatment is often essential to protect ash trees and prevent widespread damage, as the emerald ash borer is an aggressive and persistent insect.

How to Identify EAB

Emerald ash borers are distinctive insects with several identifying characteristics:

Adult emerald ash borers measure about 3/8 to 1/2 inch long and 1/16 inch wide

They have a flattened back and a bullet-shaped body that tapers at the end

Adults are metallic green on top, though they have a bright red or copper-colored abdomen that is visible when their wings are spread

EAB larvae are creamy white, flat-headed grubs with bell-shaped segments and a pair of brown pincer-like appendages on the last segment

Mature larvae can grow up to 1.5 inches long

If you see insects that resemble those described here, your ash trees are likely vulnerable to EAB infestation.

Life Cycle of the Emerald Ash Borer

Understanding the EAB life cycle is crucial for effective treatment and management:

Female emerald ash borers lay 40-70 reddish-brown eggs in bark crevices

Within 7-10 days, eggs hatch into larvae, which immediately bore into the tree

Larvae feed under the bark for 1-2 years, disrupting nutrient flow throughout the tree

In late fall, mature larvae create chambers in the sapwood, where they spend the winter

Pupation (something akin to larval puberty) occurs in spring before adults emerge to repeat the cycle

In North America, EAB typically completes its life cycle in 1-2 years depending on climate and tree health

The impact of the emerald ash borer can be unsightly and can significantly reduce your landscape’s health and vitality.

That’s why SavATree offers comprehensive insect management solutions that address emerald ash borers and many other potential threats.

Where to Find Emerald Ash Borer Treatment Near You

If you're searching for "ash tree treatment," "how to save ash trees from EAB," or "emerald ash borer prevention," SavATree's ISA Certified Arborists can help.

Our team specializes in identifying and treating emerald ash borer infestations that threaten your valuable ash trees, and our certified and experienced arborists develop customized treatment plans based on:

The level of infestation and tree condition

The size, age, and location of your ash tree

The overall health and value of your tree

Environmental considerations and regulatory requirements

Our integrated approach includes:

Soil injection treatments, which are typically applied from early April through late September. This window allows for season-long protection and is best used as a preventive measure or in the early stages of infestation.

Trunk injection treatments, which are applied from early July through early September, are most effective for trees already showing signs of infestation, larger ash trees, or those in areas with high EAB pressure.

Systemic treatment injections as described above can provide 1-2 years of protection.
Preventive treatments for uninfected ash trees in areas where EAB has been detected.
Regular inspections to detect early signs of infestation.
Cultural practices like proper pruning, adequate irrigation, and fertilization to improve tree vigor.

SavATree's professional treatments not only address current infestations but also help prevent future EAB damage through ongoing monitoring and maintenance programs. Saving your ash trees from emerald ash borers preserves the beauty, health, and value of your property.