How do you get rid of borers on my peach tree?

Answer 1

Borers are difficult to get rid of. It depends on how infested your tree is. Then it depends on what variety of borer you have infesting your tree. It could be roundheaded borers, flatheaded, clearwing, etc. Usually borers only attack weak and ailing trees, so the first line of defense is to fertilize and to keep your tree as healthy as can be. Sap lines usually protect the tree from borers. Instead of giving you a lesson on Tree/borer defense/offense, I'll tell you what I did to get rid of mine. I am an avid bonsai enthusiast, so I have the luxury and the curse of having my trees in pots. First, I removed my tree from its pot and removed all of the soil. I then replaced it with new soil. Adults usually winter there (depending on the species). Then I remove any and all deadwood on the tree where there has been borer activity. Then I use a systemic pesticide, as well as carbaryl and permethrin on the bark. I then use a 1:1 mix of lime sulfur and water and inject it into the borer holes, which can be a very arduous task. After this, I wrap the bark with seran wrap to seal the vapors in and to let it do its work. After this, when the tree is clean, you can use a 1:1 mix of latex paint and water to seal off the bark as a preventative measure. Having said this, usually when the beetles have begun tunneling, insecticides will not work. It's a hit and miss type of deal. Also, if you can find out what species of bug you have, it would be helpful. Could be a moth, wasp, beetle, etc. There are many borers. Anyway, you have to time the insecticide just right. Right before spring is usually best. Anyway, hope this helps you.