Lydia from Valley Center writes
Will Ferti-lome Tree and Shrub Systemic Insect Drench work to kill the goldspotted oak borer in a tree with a 20 in trunk diameter? I can remove the bark and see the borer and holes in the tree. If this will not work, what does?
Ferti-lome Tree and Shrub Systemic Insect Drench will not work/control goldspotted oak borers as systemic insecticides are not effective against them. I did find this article here that may be helpful. The key is preventing them from spreading to healthy trees. Tengard SFR would be a good option. Infected trees should be cut down (before the newly hatched beetles fly out of the trees in the spring/summer) and the wood burned or chipped, while other still healthy trees should be sprayed annually to protect them. The tree should be sprayed from the ground to 15 ft up the trunk to prevent future infestations. You should contact your local cooperative extension office to find out the best time to start spraying in your region.
Answer last updated on: 06/17/2019
