Interested in learning how to quickly identify Borer problems in California and how best to manage them effectively for your clients? Rainbow provides science-based, industry-leading solutions to manage Polyphagous Shot Hole Borer, Goldspotted Oak Borer, and other invasive insects. We can provide you with the tools you need to accurately diagnose and manage these infestations for your customers.
Symptoms & Solutions for Borer Infestations
Photo: Natural History of Orange County, California
Invasive Shot Hole Borers (including Kuroshio Shot Hole Borer & Polyphagous Shot Hole Borer) originated from Southeast Asia and impact over 200 species of trees in Southern California. ISHB is often diagnosed by small circular entrance and exit holes less than 1 mm, typically accompanied by staining, sugary exude (volcanoes), gumming, and frass. The borers are problematic because they transmit a fungus that causes wilt, which can cause severe branch dieback and death. Studies show a reduction of infestation and attacks with every other year injections of Mectinite.
Photo: Wkicommons
Goldspotted Oak Borer is a flat-headed borer that has moved into California from Mexico and Guatemala. Its primary hosts are coast live oak, canyon live oak, California black oak, and Engelmann oak. It has become problematic quickly because the rapid death rate of infested trees makes the GSOB a catalyst in increased wildfire risk. Signs of this pest include D-shaped exit holes, meandering galleries beneath the bark, bleeding on the bark, crown thinning and dieback, and eventually death. Trunk injections of Mectinite every other year can be administered to successfully manage this pest.
Find out how Brian Bruce, our California Territory Manager can help you develop and grow your invasive insect management program including the education, training, products, and equipment needed. And, for a limited time, you can take advantage of our Mectinite Starter-Kit Special Offer, which provides all the tools you need to get started on Borer Management!
