Updated: April 3, 2022

Green Ti plants are a beautiful addition to any garden or home. However, they are susceptible to an array of pests, one of which is borers. Borers are small, worm-like insects that bore into the trunk or stem of a plant, causing damage and eventually death if left untreated. The good news is that there are several methods you can use to get rid of borers on your Green Ti plant.

Identify the Borers

Before you can effectively treat borers on your Green Ti plant, you need to identify the type of borer causing the damage. There are several types of borers that can attack Green Ti plants, including:

  • Tea Shot Hole Borer
  • Eucalyptus Longhorned Borer
  • Koa Moth Borer

Identifying the type of borer will help you determine the best treatment method for your plant.

Natural Treatments

There are several natural treatments that you can use to get rid of borers on your Green Ti plant. These include:

Neem Oil

Neem oil is a natural insecticide that is effective in controlling borers. Mix 2 tablespoons of neem oil with 1 gallon of water and spray your Green Ti plant thoroughly. Repeat every two weeks until the borers are gone.

Beneficial Nematodes

Beneficial nematodes are microscopic worms that live in soil and feed on insects. They are an effective biological control for borers. You can purchase beneficial nematodes from your local garden center and add them to the soil around your Green Ti plant.

Pruning

If you notice borer damage on a branch or stem, prune it immediately. This will remove any larvae or eggs that may be present and prevent them from spreading to other parts of the plant.

Chemical Treatments

If natural treatments do not work, you may need to resort to chemical treatments. It is important to note that chemical treatments should be used as a last resort and with caution. Always follow the instructions on the label and wear protective clothing when applying chemicals.

Imidacloprid

Imidacloprid is a systemic insecticide that is effective in controlling borers. Mix the recommended amount of imidacloprid with water and apply to the soil around your Green Ti plant. The roots will absorb the chemical and transport it throughout the plant, killing any borers that feed on it.

Carbaryl

Carbaryl is a contact insecticide that can be sprayed directly on the Green Ti plant to control borers. Mix the recommended amount of carbaryl with water and spray your plant thoroughly. Be sure to cover all parts of the plant, including the undersides of leaves.

Preventative Measures

Prevention is always better than cure. Here are some preventative measures you can take to reduce the likelihood of a borer infestation on your Green Ti plant:

  • Keep your Green Ti plant healthy by providing adequate water and nutrients.
  • Avoid planting your Green Ti plant in areas with heavy borer infestations.
  • Prune your Green Ti plant regularly to remove dead or damaged branches.
  • Keep an eye out for signs of borer damage and treat them immediately.

By taking these preventative measures, you can reduce the likelihood of a borer infestation and keep your Green Ti plant healthy.

FAQ

Are borers harmful to humans?

Borers are not harmful to humans, but they can cause significant damage to plants if left untreated.

Can I use both natural and chemical treatments together?

It is not recommended to use both natural and chemical treatments together as it can be harmful to your plant.

How often should I apply treatments?

Follow the instructions on the label for the recommended frequency of application. In general, treatments should be applied every two weeks until the borers are gone.