Question
maplebug
Here in Mid-Michigan, I have a third year transplant about 3" in diameter.
Last fall I noticed some cracking in the bark. Upon further inspection this
spring, I find the bark damage is quite severe, with damage to the pulp of the
tree as well. There are the tiniest, light brown, quick insects if damaged bark
is prodded. There also appears to be "tracks" on the surface of the bark,
though not into the bark, looks like discoloration. The tree looks to be in
trouble, I paid a good bit for it, love it and don't want to lose it. Thanks in
advance. I just took a pic of the damage and when I viewed it, I was
surprised to see one of the pests in the shot. I did not see it when I shot it.
AnswerThis is borer damage. Spray the area with an insecticide called Merit. Check with your local nursery they should have this insecticide. This will kill the insect in the trunk. BUT this damage is completely around the stem and the tree may not be able to recover from the extensive damage. It is worth a try. If you have not done so mulch around the tree with not more than 3 inches of organic mulch and water.
A tree with this much damage will have a hard time getting enough water to the leaves and it may not make it. This spring and summer will tell by the amount of new leaves the tree can produce. If it leafs out good make sure it gets water when there are dry spells this summer. Water with 1 inch of water per week. Place a pan under the tree and turn the sprinkler on and when the pan has 1 inch of water in it stop.
