In Nashville and its surrounding communities, ash trees are a beloved part of our neighborhoods, shading homes in Green Hills, lining streets in Brentwood, and adding charm to yards in Hendersonville. But these trees face a serious challenge from the Emerald Ash Borer (EAB), a tiny, metallic green beetle that’s been spreading through our region since 2010. First detected in Knox County, the EAB has reached Davidson County and nearby areas, threatening ash trees in our backyards and parks. At Tree Masters of Tennessee, we’re committed to helping our Middle Tennessee neighbors save their trees and keep our communities green. In this post, we’ll guide you through identifying the EAB, spotting infested ash trees, and exploring effective treatment options tailored to the Nashville area’s unique needs.
The Emerald Ash Borer (Agrilus planipennis), an invasive beetle from Asia, arrived in North America via wooden packing materials and was first identified in Michigan in 2002. Since hitting Tennessee, it has caused significant damage, with larvae burrowing under the bark to feed on the tree’s vascular system, blocking water and nutrient flow. This can kill an ash tree in just three years if untreated. In the Nashville area, the EAB targets green, white, black, and blue ash trees, as well as white fringetree, impacting urban spaces like Centennial Park and suburban yards in Belle Meade. The beetle spreads through flight but also travels on firewood—a concern in our region, where camping is a summer staple. Wood movement quarantines help, but early detection and treatment are essential to protecting our trees.
Saving your ash trees starts with knowing how to spot them and recognize EAB damage, especially in the Nashville area’s humid summers and variable weather. Here’s what to look for:
Ash trees are common in Middle Tennessee. Identify them by:
Not sure if your tree is an ash? Our team at Tree Masters can visit your property in Nashville or nearby areas like Murfreesboro for a professional identification.
The EAB attacks from the canopy down, making early signs subtle. In Middle Tennessee, where summer heat and storms can stress trees, distinguishing EAB damage is critical. Watch for:
If you spot these signs, act quickly—contact Tree Masters of Tennessee for an expert evaluation. Even trees with symptoms can often be saved with prompt treatment.
Nashville’s ash trees are worth protecting, not only for their beauty but for their role in cooling our homes, boosting property values, and supporting local wildlife. Ignoring EAB or removing infested trees leads to loss, but treatment offers a practical, affordable solution. At Tree Masters, we use a highly effective trunk injection method to combat EAB while prioritizing Middle Tennessee’s environment.
Unlike soil drenching or spraying, which can introduce chemicals into Nashville’s waterways or harm pollinators like our native honeybees, trunk injection delivers treatment directly into the tree’s vascular system. This approach is:
The trunk injection process is straightforward and minimally invasive:
This method provides up to two years of control, making it more cost-effective than removing and replacing a tree, especially compared to routine expenses like a monthly utility bill.
DIY treatments can be unreliable, particularly in Middle Tennessee’s variable weather conditions. Our certified arborists at Tree Masters ensure accurate application using advanced equipment, followed by regular check-ins to monitor your tree’s health. Whether you’re in Brentwood or Murfreesboro, we deliver tailored care to keep your trees thriving.
Failing to address EAB can have serious consequences for Nashville-area homeowners and communities:
Treating your trees preserves their beauty, enhances your property, and helps keep Nashville’s neighborhoods vibrant and green.
At Tree Masters of Tennessee, we understand the pride Nashvillians and nearby residents take in their landscapes, from the historic charm of Belle Meade to the family-friendly yards of Hendersonville. Our team combines professional expertise with a friendly, neighborly approach, delivering solutions tailored to Middle Tennessee’s unique needs. We’re committed to protecting your trees while respecting our local environment, ensuring your property stays beautiful and safe. Getting started is easy—just call us, schedule a treatment, and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with healthy trees.
The Emerald Ash Borer is a small pest with a big impact, but you can protect your ash trees with the right treatment. Trunk injection offers a proven, eco-friendly way to stop EAB and keep your trees thriving for years to come. Don’t let this invasive beetle steal the beauty and value of your Nashville-area property. If you suspect EAB or want to safeguard your trees, Tree Masters of Tennessee is here to help.
Contact us today at 615-695-2330, email [email protected], or book a free consultation directly on our website at www.treemasterstn.com. Let’s work together to save your ash trees and preserve Nashville’s natural beauty!
