How to Tell If Trees Have Termites
WouterTermites are insects that infest live trees, wooden structures, and other plants. They feed on cellulose, a substance found in the hard inner material of plants. Termites can damage your tree and destroy its interior. You can save your tree if you can identify the problem and treat it quickly.
Termites build complex tunnels into the wood of your tree. These tunnels are usually hidden in the creases or cracks of the bark. You can pull back the bark to see these tunnels. Alternatively, you can examine the tree’s roots.
If you see signs of termite infestation, you should contact a tree specialist. In some cases, the tree will need to be removed from the property. This will require personal protective equipment.
You can also tell if your tree is infested if you notice tiny holes in the trunk. Termites build tunnels into the wood to help them travel. This type of infestation can be very difficult to identify. It’s not uncommon for the holes to be located near the base of the trunk.
You can also detect termites by watching for wood shavings or frass. These are pieces of dead or diseased foliage that termites may have left behind. If you find these pieces of wood, they should be burned immediately.
You can also tell if your trees are infested if you can hear a hollow sound when you knock against them. This sound comes from the fact that termites are eating away at the tree’s internal structure.
