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Bark Wash Protection
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My Arborist provides general tree services to help keep your outdoor plants and shrubs healthy and strong. While pests and diseases can be factors that you need to watch for, our general tree maintenance services will help you quickly address or prevent issues.
Tree & Shrub Health
Deep Root Fertilization
Insect Control
Disease Control
Tree Injections
Dormant Oil
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Bark Wash & Protection
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Bark Wash Protection
A systemic Bark wash protection is a method of applying a liquid systemic insecticide directly to the base of a tree’s trunk, where it is absorbed through the bark and transported via the vascular system throughout the tree. This treatment is commonly used to manage pests and diseases that affect tree health.
The Pitch Mass Borer is a species of clearwing moth whose larvae bore into evergreen trees, causing damage that can lead to tree decline and death. Pitch Mass Borers are present in Michigan and their damage is noticeable. A systemic Bark wash is an excellent way to control Pitch Mass Borers. Contact our ISA Certified Arborist if you notice sap masses that look like this on your evergreen greens.


How we apply it
Proper Product Selection – Arborists are trained to select the correct systemic insecticides that target Pitch Mass Borer and other pest activity effectively.
Correct Application Techniques – Applying the wash improperly can lead to ineffective uptake or environmental contamination. An arborist ensures optimal absorption through timing, dilution, and application methods.
Tree Health Evaluation – An ISA Certified Arborist can assess overall tree health, identify stressors that may be exacerbating infestation, and recommend additional care strategies.
Integrated Pest Management (IPM) – Professional arborists don’t just apply pesticides; they incorporate pruning, site improvements, and monitoring to create a holistic defense against borers.
Safety and Environmental Protection – Incorrect pesticide use can harm beneficial insects, groundwater, and surrounding vegetation. Arborists follow regulations and best practices to minimize unintended impacts.
Common Tree Pests in Michigan
Not sure what you're dealing with? Start here.

Bagworms
Foliar Talc-like white coating spreads across leaves and new shoots; thrives in warm days with cool, humid nights
ArborvitaeEvergreens
Learn more →

Aphids
Conifer Older needles yellow, brown, and drop prematurely; canopy thins from the bottom up over several seasons.
ShrubsTrees
Learn more →

Scale Insects
Sap-sucking insect Small bumps stuck to bark or leaves; sticky residue and sooty mold.
ShrubsTrees
Learn more →

Spider Mites
Sucking mite Speckled, dusty foliage with fine webbing on the undersides
ArborvitaeOrnamentalsSpruce
Learn more →

Emerald Ash Borer
Wood-boring insect D-shaped exit holes, canopy thinning, and rapid decline of ash trees
Ash
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Boxwood Problems
Disease complex Yellowing, bronzing, and irregular leaf drop signal a mix of fungal and environmental stressors on boxwood
Boxwood
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CONSULTATION
Not sure what is causing the problem?
My Arborist can inspect the symptoms, identify likely stressors, and recommend the right next step.
ISA Certified Arborists
Each visit is handled by credentialed professionals
No-Pressure Consultation
Professional assessment, custom plan, honest recommendations
Serving SE Michigan
Plymouth, Northville, Birmingham, Novi & more
Contact us below
or give us a call at 248-378-1111
