Ambrosia Beetle Treatment by SavATree Insects, Mites & Diseases Ambrosia beetle is a term used for a variety of wood-boring tree insects that target hardwood trees. Unlike most wood-boring insects, ambrosia beetles don’t eat the wood itself. Instead, they feed on a symbiotic fungus that they introduce into trees while tunneling. This fungus, often referred to as ambrosia beetle fungus, clogs the vascular system of its host tree as it grows and disrupts the flow of water and nutrients throughout the tree. Ambrosia beetles are opportunistic, often targeting stressed or weakened trees. The most common trees ambrosia beetles attack include redbud, dogwood, Japanese maple, magnolia, oak, peach, cherry, and other ornamental or fruit species. Signs of Ambrosia Beetle Infestation Recognizing the symptoms of an infestation early is the key to effective management. Common signs include: Toothpick-like frass protruding from small exit holes in the bark. Sudden wilting or dieback of branches, often appearing quickly in otherwise healthy-looking trees. Boring dust or sawdust accumulation at the base of the tree. These indicators suggest active tunneling and fungus growth beneath the bark. Where and When to Look for Ambrosia Beetles Ambrosia beetles are found in many areas throughout the United States, but are most prominent in the Southeast due to the humid conditions which promote their activity. Infestations also commonly occur in the Northeast and Midwest. Ambrosia beetles are most active in the spring and summer when they emerge in search of new hosts. This period is a critical time for monitoring, especially following an environmental stressor like a drought or flood, which can make trees more vulnerable. How Ambrosia Beetles Damage Your Trees Ambrosia beetles bore into the tree bark until they reach the thin, actively growing layer of cells beneath the bark (the cambium layer) and form their distinctive “tunnels.” The tunneling, along with the symbiotic fungus ambrosia beetles produce and feed on, disrupts the tree’s ability to transport water and nutrients from the roots to the leaves. If left untreated, this could lead to branch dieback, overall decline, or even death of the tree. Ambrosia beetles often target already weakened trees, so infestations can be a sign that a tree was already under significant environmental stress. The tunneling, combined with the fungal infection, accelerates the decline of the already stressed tree. How to Prevent Ambrosia Beetle Infestations Because ambrosia beetles target weakened hosts, the best defense is to keep trees healthy. Proper watering during dry spells, active soil care, and avoiding external injuries help reduce vulnerability. SavATree’s ISA Certified Arborists specialize in proactive monitoring to catch infestations early before severe damage occurs. Through regular inspections, proper soil care, and treatments to reduce tree stress, we can help bolster the health of your trees and make them less attractive to ambrosia beetles. Ambrosia Beetle Treatment Near You There’s no way to get rid of ambrosia beetles once they’ve settled in, which is why early detection and expert intervention are critical. SavATree’s ISA Certified Arborists focus on preventive strategies to protect susceptible trees, including monitoring, targeted trunk injections, and treatments to build stress tolerance. Your arborist may also recommend treatments that can bolster the health of your trees and soil, including: ArborHealth®, an exclusive slow-release fertilizer that provides essential nutrients to the soil ArborKelp®, a seaweed-based biostimulant that encourages nutrient uptake from the soil and increases plant growth and vigor Organic Soil Enhancer, which restores carbon-rich organic matter to the soil and improves soil texture and drainage If ambrosia beetles are identified, pruning infested branches at least 3–4 inches below visible signs and properly disposing of the material is essential, as beetles inside the cambium are largely protected from treatments. In advanced cases, tree removal may be necessary to prevent further spread. Your ISA Certified Arborist can guide you through the right course of action for your tree. Whether you need to address existing infestations or prevent future outbreaks, SavATree’s comprehensive insect and mite management can keep your trees healthy and resilient. Contact SavATree today to schedule a consultation and protect your trees from the damaging effects of ambrosia beetles. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with an expert arborist.