Why Insect & Disease Control IS Necessary

Colorado is home to a diverse range of tree species, but unfortunately, there are certain bugs that pose a threat to their health and survival. Here are the top four bugs that can kill trees in Colorado:

• Emerald Ash Borer: This invasive beetle has been responsible for the destruction of millions of ash trees across the United States, including in Colorado. The larvae of the emerald ash borer feed on the inner bark of ash trees, disrupting the tree's ability to transport water and nutrients, ultimately leading to its decline and death.
• Pine Beetle: The mountain pine beetle is a notorious pest that attacks various species of pine trees in Colorado. These beetles bore into the bark of pine trees, introducing a fungus that blocks the tree's nutrient flow. Infestations of pine beetles have devastated large swaths of pine forests in Colorado, leaving behind a landscape littered with dead trees.
• Ips Beetle: The ips beetle, also known as the engraver beetle, targets stressed or weakened trees, including those affected by drought, disease, or other pests. These beetles tunnel into the inner bark of trees, creating galleries where they lay their eggs. Ips beetle infestations can quickly overwhelm a tree, leading to its rapid decline.
• Spruce Bark Beetle: The spruce bark beetle is another significant threat to Colorado's forests, particularly spruce trees. These beetles tunnel beneath the bark of spruce trees, disrupting the tree's vascular system and causing it to die off. Infestations of spruce bark beetles can spread rapidly, impacting large swaths of spruce forests.

As a tree owner or a concerned citizen, it's essential to be vigilant for signs of bug infestations in trees and take proactive measures to protect tree health. Consulting with arborists and implementing proper tree care practices can help mitigate the risk of bug-related tree mortality in Colorado's diverse landscapes.