Emerald Ash Borer (EAB)

The Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) was first detected in Omaha in 2016. Research shows we are headed into the steep upswing of ash tree mortality that occurs 7-10 years following its discovery in a municipality. Whether you are looking to prolong the life of your ash tree, or make plans to replace it in your landscape, we can help you!
What are my treatment options?
We offer two treatment options: Trunk injections and trunk sprays. We will help you determine the best solution based on the size and location of your tree, your budget, the value of the tree, and the tree's current health.

Our treatment methods:
Trunk injections are proven to be the most effective method of protection for your tree. We inject the trunk of your tree using a solution of Emamectin Benzoate (4%). We offer these trunk injections spring through early summer in order to coincide with the lifecycle of the beetle. Trunk injections are effective for two years.

We also offer trunk spray treatments of dinotefuran for very small trees, trees in tight spaces that are difficult to inject, trees with root issues, or trees that will be treated late in the summer (mid-July through August). Trunk sprays are effective for one year. 

How often and for how long will I need to treat my tree?
To protect your tree, you will need to treat it every other year, HOWEVER, research shows that once EAB populations spike and decline, homeowners may choose to treat every three or four years. Generally speaking, this population decline occurs around 10 years following the discovery of EAB in a specific area. 

Should all ash trees be treated?
Not all ash trees are ideal candidates for treatment. Consider the factors below before treating, keeping in mind that it may be more wise to plant its replacement now so that by the time you need to remove your ash tree, you've got a sizable stand-in ready to go. Looking for ideas on what to plant? Here is a great list of suggested trees from the Nebraska Forest Service. 
  • Is this tree valuable? Does it shade your home? Does it have sentimental value that cannot be replaced? If not, keep reading...
  • Very young trees should be replaced. A lifetime of treatments is not only a poor investment, it is harmful to the tree itself and potentially harmful to the environment.
  • Very old trees may be nearing the end of their lifespan. Is your ash tree 40, 50, or 60 years old? Consider treating the tree for a few seasons, but know that it will eventually need to come down. Older trees may not respond well to trunk injection treatment methods.  
  • Trees in decline may not survive. Ash trees that have already lost 50% or more of their canopies do not have a high survival rate. Ash trees can fall victim to other native boring insects. They may already be in bad shape even before an EAB infestation. An already-injured or unhealthy tree is also more quickly targeted by EAB.
  • Poorly placed trees should be removed. Do you have a tree that was planted near power lines? Too close to the house?  It's time to let it go. Plant a new tree in a better spot. Check out our blog post about planting the "Right Tree for the Right Place."

I can't decide! What do I do?!
We will evaluate trees on a case-by-case basis and help you determine whether or not it is in your best interest to treat the tree or plan for its replacement. Beware of fly-by-night companies that tell you every tree should be treated! Remember: we are dealing with toxic chemicals that wipe out a wide array of insects, some of which are beneficial - not just EAB. For the sake of the environment and your pocketbook, we are taking a more reasonable approach.

Free Ash Tree Replacement Program
We are excited to be partnering with Great Plains Nursery to replace front yard ash trees with a FREE native tree for qualifying tree removals. Learn more here.

How do the treatments work?
Treatments target EAB in two ways: The adult beetles that eat the leaves, as well as the larvae that feed on the live wood beneath the bark in August. The larvae then die before they are able to eat enough wood to disrupt the flow of water and nutrients up into the canopy.

When should I treat the trees?
Treatments must be performed by the end of July in order to be most effective in killing the larvae that feed on your tree. Larvae activity peaks in August, so we must perform the treatment within this time frame so the insecticide has time to be distributed throughout the tree. 

Trust an arborist!
We cannot urge you strongly enough to be proactive and to get a plan in place if you have a valuable ash tree that you would like preserve. Aside from the chemical treatments themselves, hiring a professional, certified arborist will be the strongest tool in your arsenal! 

Updated 10-20-20

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