Question
I lost a weeping cherry tree to borers.  I would like to plant another tree in the same location.  How do I pre-treat the area in advance of planting my new tree to help avoid the same thing from happening.  I loved that tree and was heartbroken when we lost it.  Any help you can provide even after planting would be greatly appreciated!!  Thanks!

Answer
There should be no problem. The borers are attracted to a weakened tree and once it is removed there are no more borers to attack. Just keep the tree healthy. Dig the hole twice the size of the root ball and as deep as the ball so the top is even with the ground surface. Fill with potting soil or good top soil and mulch around the tree with not more than 3 inches deep of organic mulch not piled up on the trunk. Water every third day with 1 inch of water --place a pan under the tree and turn the sprinkler on and when the pan has 1 inch of water in it stop. Do this every third day for a couple of weeks then once a week unless it rains good.You can treat the tree with a soil applied insecticide called Bayer Advanced Tree and Shrub Insect control. This will protect the tree for the season. Here is a web link to the product --check with your local garden type store for this product. http://www.bayeradvanced.com/tree-shrub-care/products/12-month-tree-shrub-insect