Colorado has several different types of bugs that kill trees in Colorado, causing millions of dollars worth of damage.
These invasive species eat and destroy the leaves or bark on your trees. They also may inject toxins into the trees, which will kill them over time if left untreated.
Below, we expound on these tree-killing bugs to keep you in the know before you schedule tree trimming by Arbor Pro Tree Experts Co in Golden, CO.
Top Four Bugs That Kill Trees in Colorado
1. Elm Bark Beetles
Elm bark beetles are a major threat to Colorado’s elm trees because they carry Dutch elm disease. They bore into the bark of American and English elm species and destroy tissue under the bark, which can cause your tree to die.
While there’s no cure for Dutch elm disease, you can prevent it from affecting your trees by watering them regularly and removing any affected trees in your yard.
2. Tussock Moth Caterpillars
The Tussock Moth caterpillars are voracious eaters capable of defoliating entire species of trees.
They’re a problem for the residents of Colorado, especially in the southern part of the state. The Colorado State Forest Service recommends spraying your trees with an insecticide if you see Tussock Moth caterpillars on them to eliminate these bugs that kill trees.
3. Lilac/Ash Borer
The lilac/ash borer is a species of beetle that attacks the ash tree, boring holes into the trunk and branches. These holes are approximately 1/4 inch in diameter, and they may contain sawdust.
The larvae of this species will typically bore tunnels into the lower trunk of recently planted or stressed ash trees. These invasive insects are most active from April to May.
4. Mountain Pine Beetle
When this invasive insect attacks your tree, it can cause a quick and sudden death.
The Mountain Pine Beetle is a small beetle that attacks mature trees. It drills through the bark and mines the phloem — the soft layer between the bark and wood of the tree — resulting in the tree’s death.
The larvae feed on this soft tissue, killing their host. The larvae then pupate into adults and emerge from the tree to mate.
The life cycle of this beetle is around four years long, but it can take up to seven years to complete if there are no other trees nearby for them to attack.
Contact the Colorado Tree Experts for Assistance Today
Bugs are a natural part of life, but they don’t have to destroy your trees. With the right care program in place, you can protect your property from the bugs that kill trees in Colorado.
At Arbor Pro Tree Experts Co. Inc., we offer a full range of services designed to keep your trees healthy and looking good all year long. We’ll take care of everything from pruning and watering to pest control to ensure you have healthy trees.
Contact our certified arborists at (303) 935-0005 for a free consultation. Our certified arborists will help you know more about insect and disease control for plants.
