DIY emerald ash borer treatment kits are sold online in two forms: trunk injection kits, injected into the base of the tree, and systemic soil drenches, poured at the roots. TreeHelp sells one of each, the Multi Insect Killer Tree Injection Kit and Once A Year Insecticidal Drench, though the drench is not available for sale in New York State or Canada.

What makes a DIY ash borer treatment effective?

Being systemic, meaning the tree carries the insecticide through its own tissues to larvae feeding under the bark. Sprays on the bark cannot reach borers inside the trunk, which is why both DIY options work from inside the tree.

What comes in the injection kit?

A 0.5 fluid ounce vial of injectable insecticide, a syringe, and a syringe tip. One vial of the Multi Insect Killer Tree Injection Kit is injected into holes drilled at the root flare, where the trunk widens at ground level, and treats one large tree up to 60 inches around or several smaller ones.

How is the drench dosed for an ash?

By trunk size, for 12 months of protection. A dose set by circumference is how Once A Year Insecticidal Drench is measured: 1 ounce of concentrate per inch around the trunk at chest height, mixed in water and soaked into the soil at the base in fall or early spring.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the injection kit treat other pests too?

Yes. Its listed pests include adelgids and other insects as well as emerald ash borer.

What else does the drench control?

Borers, leafminers, and adelgids, along with Asian longhorned beetle, according to its product page.

Can the injection kit be used on a fruit tree?

No. It is not meant for food bearing plants.

Is a drill needed for the injection kit?

Yes. A drill makes the small holes at the root flare where the insecticide is injected.