Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) in Denver: What You Need to Know

The Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) is one of the most destructive tree pests in North America, and it has become a growing concern for homeowners in the Denver metro area. If left untreated, EAB infestations can quickly kill ash trees, leading to costly removal and loss of valuable greenery.

At Keep It Green Tree Care, we want to help you identify, prevent, and treat EAB infestations before it’s too late. Here’s everything you need to know about protecting your ash trees.

What is the Emerald Ash Borer?

The Emerald Ash Borer (Agrilus planipennis) is a small, metallic green beetle native to Asia that attacks and kills ash trees by burrowing into the bark and feeding on the tree’s vascular system. Since its first detection in the U.S. in 2002, EAB has spread rapidly, killing millions of ash trees nationwide.

Why is EAB a Serious Threat in Denver?

✅ Denver has a high population of ash trees, many of which are on residential and public properties.
✅ Once infected, most ash trees die within 2-4 years if left untreated.
✅ The infestation can spread rapidly, leading to expensive tree removals and replacements.

Signs of an EAB Infestation

If you suspect EAB is attacking your ash trees, look for these common warning signs:

🛑 Thinning Canopy – Gradual dieback of leaves and branches, starting at the top.
🛑 D-Shaped Exit Holes – Tiny, D-shaped holes in the bark where adult beetles emerge.
🛑 S-Shaped Galleries Under the Bark – Tunneling patterns caused by larvae feeding on the tree.
🛑 Vertical Bark Splits – The tree’s bark may crack as a result of internal damage.
🛑 Increased Woodpecker Activity – Woodpeckers feed on EAB larvae, so frequent pecking can be a red flag.

Treatment Options for EAB

If your ash tree is at risk, early treatment is crucial for survival. The best EAB treatment methods include:

🌿 Trunk Injections – A highly effective method that delivers insecticide directly into the tree’s system.
🌿 Soil Drenching – Treating the soil around the tree’s roots with systemic insecticides.
🌿 Canopy Sprays – Less effective but can provide temporary protection.

💡 Pro Tip: Preventive treatments are far more effective than trying to save an already-infested tree.

When Should You Treat Your Ash Tree?

The best time to apply treatments depends on the season:

🗓️ Spring (April – June) – Ideal time for preventive trunk injections and soil treatments.
🗓️ Late Summer – Early Fall – Secondary treatment window for trees that missed spring applications.

⏳ Don’t wait until your tree shows symptoms! Preventive care is the best defense against EAB.

Why Choose Keep It Green Tree Care?

We specialize in EAB prevention and treatment, ensuring your trees receive the best care possible. Our certified arborists:

✔️ Use scientifically proven treatment methods to protect your trees.
✔️ Provide honest assessments—we won’t recommend treatment unless your tree truly needs it.
✔️ Offer ongoing monitoring and maintenance to keep your landscape healthy.

Schedule Your EAB Consultation Today!

If you own ash trees in the Denver area, now is the time to act. Don’t wait until it’s too late—protect your trees with expert care from Keep It Green Tree Care.

📞 Call us at (303) 945-9220 or 📩 Fill out our online consultation form here → Schedule a Consultation

Let’s work together to save your ash trees and keep Denver green! 🌳💚