Holes in Your Ash Tree Trunk? What Mesa Homeowners Should Know
Have you noticed holes in your ash tree’s trunk, loose bark, or woodpeckers working on the branches? These signs deserve a closer look, especially if the tree also has thinning leaves or dying limbs. However, holes alone do not identify the cause or tell you whether the tree can recover.
Warner, of Warner’s Tree Surgery, has more than 50 years of experience treating sick trees in the Phoenix area. He looks at the bark, branches, root area, and watering conditions to help determine what is happening before recommending treatment.
For help with a sick ash tree in Mesa or nearby East Valley communities, call 480-969-8808.
Watch: Why Are There Holes in My Ash Tree?
What Causes Holes in an Ash Tree?
Wood-boring insects can leave openings when adult insects emerge from the tree. Woodpeckers may also remove bark while searching for insects. Some birds make small holes while feeding on sap. Old injuries and damaged bark can create openings as well.
The size, shape, and pattern of the holes provide clues, but a reliable assessment also considers the condition of the whole tree. Do not assume every hole means the same insect or disease is present.
Other Signs Worth Checking
- New holes appearing in the trunk or branches.
- Sawdust-like material around openings or near the tree’s base.
- Loose, cracked, or missing bark.
- Unusual wet spots or staining on the trunk.
- A thinning canopy or branches that are dying back.
- Increasing woodpecker activity on damaged areas.
Photograph the openings and the whole tree. Include a ruler beside a hole for scale without inserting anything into it. Note when you first noticed the damage and whether it seems to be spreading. Leave attached bark in place.
Why Warner Checks the Watering and Roots
Many wood-boring insects take advantage of trees already weakened by drought stress, root damage, sun injury, or other problems. Treating an insect without addressing the underlying stress may leave the tree vulnerable.
Warner will evaluate the watering pattern, soil moisture, drainage, and visible root-area conditions along with the trunk and canopy. Watering recommendations should fit the tree’s size, soil, season, and irrigation system rather than a single schedule for every yard.
Do Holes Mean Emerald Ash Borer?
No. Holes alone do not confirm emerald ash borer. D-shaped exit holes can be an important clue, but identifying the insect requires more evidence. Have suspicious damage assessed and contact Arizona plant-health officials or your local Cooperative Extension office for identification guidance when an invasive pest is suspected.
Can an Ash Tree With Holes Be Saved?
Some trees can improve when the cause is identified and the growing conditions are corrected. Others may have extensive damage or structural problems. The outlook depends on the amount of living canopy, the condition of the trunk and roots, and whether the problem is still active.
Avoid choosing an insecticide or adding fertilizer simply because holes are present. Any treatment should address the identified problem, and pesticide use must follow the product label.
When to Arrange a Prompt Inspection
Large dead branches, a new lean, major trunk cracks, or soil lifting around the base can indicate a safety concern. Keep people and pets away from the affected area and arrange a prompt tree-risk assessment.
Call Warner’s Tree Surgery
Worried about holes, damaged bark, or declining branches on your ash tree? Call Warner’s Tree Surgery at 480-969-8808 to discuss your tree in Mesa, Gilbert, Chandler, Tempe, Scottsdale, or Apache Junction.
Explore our other ash tree pages for information about brown leaves, yellow leaves, falling leaves, dying branches, and trees that are not leafing out.