How to Get Rid of Borers on Cypress Plant

Cypress plants are a popular choice for adding beauty and privacy to your landscape. However, they can be susceptible to borers, which are insects that bore into the bark and wood of the plant causing damage and potentially killing it. In this article, we will discuss how to identify borers and provide effective methods for getting rid of them.

Identifying Borers on Cypress Plants

Borers are typically small, elongated insects that have larvae that bore into the wood of the plant. They can be difficult to spot because they often enter the plant through small openings in the bark. However, there are a few signs to look out for:

• Small holes in the bark
• Sawdust or frass around the base of the plant
• Wilting or yellowing leaves
• Branches that snap easily

If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to take action quickly to prevent further damage.

Preventative Measures

Preventing borers from infesting your cypress plant is the best way to avoid dealing with them altogether. Here are some preventative measures you can take:

• Choose healthy plants: Look for healthy plants that are free from damage or stress when purchasing.
• Proper planting: Make sure to plant your cypress at the right depth and in well-draining soil to avoid stress on the roots.
• Watering: Water your cypress deeply but infrequently to encourage deep root growth and avoid excess moisture.
• Pruning: Prune your cypress regularly to remove dead or diseased branches and promote air circulation.

Getting Rid of Borers

If you’ve already noticed signs of borers on your cypress plant, it’s important to take action quickly. Here are some effective methods for getting rid of borers:

Insecticides

Insecticides can be effective in killing borers if used properly. Look for a product that is labeled specifically for borers and follow the instructions carefully. It’s important to note that insecticides can harm beneficial insects, so use them sparingly and only when necessary.

Beneficial Nematodes

Beneficial nematodes are microscopic organisms that can kill borers without harming other beneficial insects. They can be purchased at garden centers or online and should be applied to the soil around the base of the plant.

Manual Removal

If you only have a few borers on your cypress plant, you can try manually removing them with a small knife or wire. It’s important to remove the entire borer, including the larvae, to prevent further damage.

FAQ

Can I prevent borers from infesting my cypress plant?

Yes, there are several preventative measures you can take to avoid borers infesting your cypress plant. Choose healthy plants, plant in well-draining soil, water properly, and prune regularly.

Are insecticides safe for my cypress plant?

Insecticides can be effective in killing borers but should be used sparingly and only when necessary. Follow the instructions carefully and look for a product labeled specifically for borers.

What are beneficial nematodes?

Beneficial nematodes are microscopic organisms that can kill borers without harming other beneficial insects. They can be purchased at garden centers or online and should be applied to the soil around the base of the plant.

Can I manually remove borers from my cypress plant?

If you only have a few borers on your cypress plant, you can try manually removing them with a small knife or wire. It’s important to remove the entire borer, including the larvae, to prevent further damage.