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Japanese Maple -- Insect problem causing bark damage #243546

Asked May 11, 2015, 8:59 PM EDT

Hi, I have another Japanese Maple that has major bark damage that is being potentially caused by a borer type insect which has caused significant bark damage on one limb, and starting to cause problems on the main trunk. The trunk also looks like it has major sun damage on one side of the trunk. Please help! See attached photos. Thanks, Ed

Douglas County Oregon

Expert Response

Yes this maple had serious sunburn damage. At this stage it is starting to rot and the borers are helping to break down the damaged tissue. Start by scraping off all the dead tissue. If the bark resists and is hard to remove, just leave it on. Again spray the wound with a copper based fungicide to minimize rot. This tree might be able to callus much of this wound like the other tree did. Borers would need a spray of Spinosad on the trunk to control them.
These trees were probably planted in the open with a south and west exposure which is pretty tough on them if they are not well watered all summer. Water and mulch them well and hopefully they will come back some.
An Ask Extension Expert Replied May 12, 2015, 5:27 PM EDT

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