Birch Borer
Birch borer is a metallic, copper-color beetle. They attack birches which are stressed and unhealthy. The larvae are white, legless wormlike grubs with a flattened head which tunnel into the cambium of the tree. They create zigzag patterns under the bark that become full of sawdust. The trees that are able to overgrow these wounds will have raised bark in these areas. The larvae stay in the tree until early spring when as an adult they emerge through a D-shape hole. They will then lay eggs on the bark for the next generation. Recommended treatment is a soil insecticide injection either in the late fall or early spring. This treatment will provide a full season of control.
*It is important to get this issue taken care of in a timely manner. Not only will the birch borer damage the tree but in most cases if left untreated, will lead to the death of the tree. Contact us if you have questions, or would like an expert to diagnose your tree.
