The emerald ash borer (EAB) has made big news in recent weeks after its first discovery in Minnesota, and rightfully so.  This deadly & invasive insect made its way to the United States as a stowaway in packing material on a cargo ship from China. It has been found in Canada and 10 states including Michigan & Wisconsin and has destroyed over 30 million ash trees since 2002.

 
According to reports, the EAB has the potential to destroy the nearly 950 million ash trees that are growing in our state.  In Minnesota alone, millions of ash trees were planted in boulevards & yards during the past 4 decades in response to Dutch elm disease, millions more were used in farm windbreaks.  Minnesota's forestlands prominently feature green, white, & black ash trees - all are vulnerable to EAB.  We suggest reading an article from the May/June edition of the DNR's Minnesota Conservationist by Mary Hoff to learn more about EAB & its potential effects on Minnesota.  (The article was written just before the first EAB was found in MN.)

We know that this sounds like doom & gloom.  It's quite scary to think of losing so many trees and how it will affect the environment, ecology & economy of our state.  Right now, there is no definite answer on how to stop the spread of EAB.  The DNR, USDA & everyone else involved are working day & night to find answers. In the meantime, what can you & I do to help slow the spread of EAB?  Here is a list of recommendations.  These efforts may seem small - but every bit will help.

1. Treat your existing ash trees.  See the article below for Otten Bros. recommendations.  Removal of dead trees could potentially cost more than the preventative EAB treatments available.  
2. DON'T MOVE FIREWOOD - buy it where you burn it.  Firewood transported across state and county lines and even across towns has artificially advanced the spread of the insect.  Visit this link to find approved firewood vendors in your area.
3. Plant trees other than ash.  Contact our garden centers for a list of suggested trees.
4. Arrest the Pest!  Report any suspected EAB infested trees.  Click here for tips on how to identify ash trees, confirm signs of EAB, and how to report it to EAB First Detectors. "Arrest the Pest" Hotline  651-201-6684 - Metro Area or 1-888-545-6684 - Greater Minnesota or email Arrest.The.Pest@state.mn

How Can I Protect My Ash Trees?

If you are living in a county that is quarantined for EAB (Ramsey, Hennepin, or Houston County in Minnesota) - it is recommended that you treat any ash tree that you consider a valuable asset to your landscape. How do you decide to treat an ash tree?  You will need to weigh the factors of cost of the chemical and application, size of the tree, and the potential cost of removal and replacement of the tree. 

Although none of the current treatments for EAB are guaranteed to work 100% of the time, Otten Bros. recommends the following as your best choices for protecting your valuable trees.  

There are 2 treatments homeowners can apply themselves to their ash trees.  These two products, when applied correctly, according to the instructions on the labels, will move the insecticide through the soil into the root zones of your tree.  Once in the roots, the chemical will circulate throughout the tree, protecting it from EAB.

Bayer Advanced 12 Month Tree & Shrub Protect & Feed will protect and fertilize your tree for up to 12 months.  It kills existing chewing and sucking insects and prevents new infestations.  For trees with a circumference of less than 30" (or about 9" in diameter).
Ferti-lome Tree & Shrub Systemic Insect Drench will protect trees up to 12 months.  It will kill existing chewing and sucking insects and prevent new infestations.  For trees with a circumference of less than 50" (or about 16" in diameter)

Otten Bros. is also recommending a professional treatment for your ash trees, especially for trees larger than 30" in circumference.

TREE-äge Injection is similar to giving your trees a shot - just like at the doctor's office!  This treatment is proving to be a highly effective, economical, and environmentally friendly option (no chemicals are put into the soil).  The cities of Chicago and Milwaukee are using this product to treat over 100,000 ash trees located within their city limits.  TREE-äge will protect your trees for up to 2 years.  Otten Bros. has certified professionals to administer TREE-äge to your ash trees to prevent EAB.
 
                                           

"This is as close to...a silver bullet as possible." Jim Bowes, spokesman for Michigan's Emerald Ash Borer programs. 

We know that this is a lot to take in.  Most of you, we're sure, have a lot of questions and concerns regarding EAB.  Please call (952-473-5425) or email one of our garden centers. We will be happy to answer all your questions about EAB and recommend your best approach to protecting your valued ash trees.