Wachtel Tree Science

Almost all types of viburnums have become susceptible to viburnum borer. This insect tunnels into the stems at, or slightly below ground level. Look for damage in this area. Stressed plants are more likely to become infested. Water properly to avoid drought stress and renewal prune if appropriate to keep plants vigorous.  Symptoms may be a curling and stunting of leaves and premature fall color, as well as dieback of some portions of the plant. Insecticide treatments require multiple applications are warranted only on high value plants.

By Jean Ferdinandsen

Wachtel Tree Science

Certified Arborist # WI0149A

 Because these obnoxious, metallic green and brown beetles feed on over 250 different species of plants (roses, lindens and maples are favored), high expectations are given to traps to help save the day. Japanese beetle traps are very effective in attracting and trapping adult Japanese beetles, but they are ineffective in protecting your susceptible trees and shrubs from Japanese beetle feeding damage.

This seemingly contradictory answer requires an explanation. Japanese beetle traps, sold at most garden center outlets, usually contain two separate, chemical lures. One lure is a feeding attractant that attracts both male and female beetles. The second lure is a pheromone that attracts male beetles. These lures work very well in attracting hundreds, even thousands of adult beetles toward the trap.

 Therein lies the problem. Many adult beetles are attracted into the area around the trap, but they do not necessarily get caught inside the trap. Susceptible plant species located nearby can be more heavily damaged than if the traps were not used at all. This can be true even if the trap is full of captured adults.

 If you would like to experiment with Japanese beetle traps, be sure to locate them as far away as possible from the plants you are trying to protect. Placing a trap in the middle of your rose garden, for example, is just asking for trouble.

 We have more than one treatment available to help control this destructive pest in your yard.  Call our office at 262-538-1900 to schedule a visit by your Arborist.

Submitted By: Jeff Wilson: Certified Arborist #IL0099a  Wachtel Tree Science

Winter is an excellent time for……

• Pruning
• Analyzing storm damage
• Identifying defects in structure which may need cabling or bracing
• Inspecting for gypsy moth egg masses
• Inspecting for sphaeropsis twig blight on pines
• Inspecting for cytospora canker on spruce
• Inspecting for spruce gall adelgids
• Inspecting for stem and trunk cankers
• Inspecting for many other insect and disease problems
• Identifying and remedying crown conflicts between trees

For more information the services Wachtel Tree Science provides, see our website at: HealthyTrees.com.

So certainly do not hesitate to contact Wachtel Tree Science in winter – and if we are on your list for spring maintenance or treatments, give us a call now so we can assess your needs and schedule you for the most advantageous time.

Disease and damage do not wait until the weather warms up, and at Wachtel Tree Science, neither do we!

 

 Wachtel Tree Science Winter Pruning Commercial: Play Now | Play in Popup | Download

Emerald ash borer (EAB) is a very serious problem that threatens all ash trees in the Midwest. As of 8/5/08 it has been found in Wisconsin and is extensive in northern Illinois. The million dollar question seems to be, “When should I start treatment if I want to protect an ash tree?”

One consistent fact is that whenever they have found EAB, they always say it has been there for 3 to 6 years. It is important to keep this in mind as you make your decisions.
Another important point to remember – you have time to deal with this!

Read the Fact Sheet on Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) for more information on the threat to ash trees in Wisconsin.

A Certified or Board Certified Master Arborist can give you advice before you take removal, planting or treatment action. Contact Wachtel’s experienced staff for help dealing with the emerald ash borer threat to your ash trees.