When a tree is in jeopardy due to insect infestation, disease, or stress caused by various environmental
conditions, the most effective remedial strategy includes diagnosis along with a targeted remedy. The environment (including ourselves) cannot tolerate regimented blanket-sprays of chemicals any longer. To the right is a closed system tree injector. A specific formula is safely contained inside. This is one of the key tools of tree injections.
Here plant health care specialist, Michael Hirsch, prepares to deliver an insecticide to an oak tree showing early signs of cankerworm. This home is located in a lake community with houses relatively close to one another and pets and children all around. The sensitive environment and the safety of the people are critical considerations.
This is where tree injections for delivering insecticides and fungicides is preferred. The treatment is targeted to a specific problem in a particular plant. There is no over-spray to be concerned about.
Mike says that if all the trees on the property were sprayed, perhaps 200 gals. of insecticide would be used and only several gallons of that would actually stick to the leaves. Where does the rest of that insecticide end up!?
In the picture to the left you see the injectors being installed into the area of the tree directly behind the bark. Yes, a small hole has to be drilled for the injector’s delivery tube, but it is very small and the tree easily heals over. By the time Michael works his way around the tree, the injectors are empty and can be removed.
Within a day or two the formula is up into the leaves and doing its job. It amazed me when Michael told me that this tree injection treatment would reach the top of this 70′ oak tree.
Wouldn’t you use tree injections over the conventional method of spraying? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.