Termites hollowing a tree is the last thing any homeowner would want. Nonetheless, we see how common it is for those wood-eating insects to lay wrath on trees that people manage to grow over years and decades.
The statistics suggest that homeowners across the US spend over $5 billion every year to control the termite problem and repair the structural damages caused by it. The cost of damaged and hollowed-out trees is also included in this figure.
Wait… can termites kill a tree?
Yes, termites eat live trees. While termites are typically associated with wood-frame houses, these destructive pests can also wreak havoc on trees. A termite infestation can quickly kill an infested tree by eating away at its core. Termites eat (and are especially fond of) softwoods, such as pines and firs, but they will also readily consume hardwoods, such as oak and maple.
In a matter of months, a termite colony can completely consume a tree, leaving nothing behind but the stump. Fortunately, there are some ways to prevent termites from killing trees. Regular insecticide treatments can help to keep termites at bay, and physically removing an infested tree can also help to control the spread of these damaging pests.
Termites particularly like pine trees
Termites are remarkable creatures. These small insects are very important in the ecosystem, helping to break down dead wood and return nutrients to the soil. However, they can also cause serious damage to wooden structures, including homes and other buildings. Termites particularly like pine trees, and they often build their nests in these trees.
If there are termites in a pine tree, they will eventually start to spread to nearby trees. This can lead to a massive infestation that is very difficult to control. If you have pine trees on your property, it is important to be on the lookout for termites. If you see any signs of an infestation, you should contact a pest control professional immediately.
So, what happens if termites make a tree hollow?
As homeowners with outdoor vegetation spaces and gardens, we all must know the extent of the damage that a termite can inflict on a grown tree. Usually, termites tend to eat fallen and decaying trees. In a natural setting, this termite activity is beneficial for the ecosystem.
However, the problem arises when they infest a living tree on your lawn, backyard, or porch. When termites start hollowing a tree, its leaves and stems start shedding, and a point comes when its trunks become unstable and fall.
This last bit is scary because a tree falling out of nowhere can’t just damage things on your property. It also poses a significant threat to the well-being of you and your family. Since you have understood by now how consequential the tree-hollowing activity of termites could be, let’s look at how you can make sure the trees on your property remain safe from the shenanigans of termites.
Signs of termites in trees
If you don’t want to experience what happens when termites make a tree hollow, watch out for the following signs of termites in trees:
A lot of tiny holes and wood shavings
If you notice a lot of tiny holes and wood shavings around your property, it could be a sign of a termite infestation. These pests are attracted to infected wood, and they will often build their nests in wood piles or hollow trees. Drywood termites are especially devastating, as they can quickly consume large amounts of wood.
If you suspect that you have a termite problem, it’s important to call a pest control professional as soon as possible. They will be able to identify the type of termite and recommend the best course of treatment. Don’t wait until the problem gets out of hand-take action today to protect your property from these damaging pests.
Look at the base of the tree
Termites are small but destructive insects that can cause serious damage to trees. If you suspect that you have a termite infestation in a tree, one of the best ways to confirm it is to look at the base of the tree. Termites typically build their nests in tree stumps or in the roots of weakened trees. As a result, these areas are often heavily infested.
If you see termites at the base of a tree, it’s a good indication that the tree is infected and should be removed. Additionally, if you have a termite problem in one tree, it’s likely that there are termites in nearby trees as well. As such, it’s important to inspect all trees on your property for signs of termite infestation.
Traces of wings and carcasses
If you suspect that you have a termite infestation in your tree, there are some tell-tale signs to look for. One is the presence of termite carcasses. These will be small, white bodies that are often found near termite tunnels or feeding sites.
Another sign is the presence of discarded wings. Termites shed their wings when they reach maturity, and these can often be found near termite nests or colonies. If you see either of these signs, it’s a good indication that you have a termite problem and should take steps to address it.
Shelter or mud tube on the tree trunk
Mud tubes and shelter tubes are a good way to tell if you have a termite infestation in your tree. Mud tubes are made of mud and are about the thickness of a pencil. They are usually found on the trunk of a tree. Shelter tubes are made of mud and bits of wood.
They are usually found on the branches of the tree. If you find either of these, it is a good indication that you have a termite infestation in your tree. If you find both, it is an even better indication. If you find mud tubes or shelter tubes, you should call an exterminator to come and take a look at your tree.
Getting rid of termites in trees
If you don’t want termites to make your trees hollow, you need to get rid of them the moment you detect their presence. You can do that on your own without calling for a professional pest control company.
Wipe out the entire termite colony
Subterranean termites are one of the most destructive pests in the world. Each year, they cause billions of dollars in damage to homes and other structures. In order to get rid of termites, it is necessary to wipe out the entire colony. This can be done by finding and destroying the infected tree or by using chemical treatments.
However, it is important to note that these methods may not be 100% effective, and there is always a chance that termites will return. As a result, it is important to be vigilant and to regularly inspect your property for signs of termite activity.
Spray termite-specific insecticide
Termites are a voracious species of insect that can do serious damage to a home or building if left unchecked. Termites eat wood from the inside out, hollowing out the structural support of a property and causing untold thousands of dollars in damage. Formosan termites, in particular, are an especially destructive species that has been known to destroy entire buildings in a matter of months.
The best way to get rid of termites is to spray termite-specific insecticide around the perimeter of the affected area. This will kill any termites that come into contact with the spray, preventing them from causing further damage. If you suspect that you have a termite problem, it’s important to take action quickly before it’s too late.
Set up termite traps
If you have termites in your home, you’ll want to get rid of them as soon as possible. One way to do this is to set up termite traps. These traps attract soldier termites, which are then caught and killed. You can also use traps to target termites in trees.
By setting up these traps, you can significantly reduce the number of termites on your property. In addition, you may also want to consult with a pest control professional to see if there are other ways to get rid of termites on your property.
How to clean out dead termites
One of the most common questions I get asked is how to clean out dead termites. While it’s true that termites naturally clean out their nests of debris, there are a few things you can do to help speed up the process.
First, killing termites will help to reduce the amount of debris in the nest. However, it’s important to note that not all termites are created equal. Some species are actually beneficial to your home and should be left alone.
Second, you can remove any wood or other materials that have been infested by termites. This will help to reduce the amount of food termites have access to, and thus the amount of debris they produce.
Finally, you can simply wait for termites to naturally clean out their nests. This can take several months, but eventually, the termites will remove all the debris from their nest.
Related questions
What termite species make trees hollow?
Even though termites mostly feed on dead timber, species like Formosan can affect the live trees as well. These termites mostly target ash, live oak, and cypress trees. The US Department of Agriculture has estimated that Formosan termites infest around 30% of live oak trees in New Orleans every year. If you have oak trees in your lawn or backyard, you need to be more diligent towards the tree infestation of termites.
Are there any natural and home-based insecticides to get rid of termites in trees?
If you are wary of using off-the-shelf insect-killing chemicals, you can use some natural and home-based hacks to get rid of termites. It has been studied that regular boric acid can kill termites and fends them off. Any boric acid product you are using as antiseptic can be used for this purpose.
You can also try out the solution of salt and vinegar and spray it like insecticide in and around the tree base and on the trunk. You can also introduce nematodes into the tree soil. These earthworms are known for gobbling up termites. You can find live beneficial nematodes in pest control and home improvement stores.
If these natural and home-based methods don’t work, you have to opt for harsh insecticides as a last resort.
Do flying termites kill trees?
No, flying termites do not kill trees. However, they can damage the tree by eating the bark and leaves. In some cases, the termites may even build their nests in the tree, which can cause the tree to become structurally unsound.