How to Inject Trees With Insecticide

Injecting trees with insecticide kills insects.

Although most liquid insecticide is applied as a spray to the exterior of the tree, it can also be injected into the trunk. Injected insecticide is absorbed faster by the tree and acts quicker than an exterior application. Although it is injected into the bark, the insecticide will disperse throughout the tree all the way to the leaves. Injected insecticide does not wash away when it rains and can be applied in windy areas.

Things You'll Need

• Drill
• 11/64-inch drill bit
• Injectible insecticide system

Instructions

1. Insert an 11/64-inch drill bit into an electric drill. Place the bit again the tree no higher than 6 inches from the ground.

2. Drill 3/8 inch to 1/2 inch deep hole into the tree. Do not go any deeper than this, as the insecticide will not disperse correctly if inserted into the inner tree.

3. Drill additional holes around the circumference of the tree at the same height as the first hole. Space the holes at the distances recommended on the insecticide packaging. In general, the holes should be spaced between 4 and 6 inches apart.

4. Insert the feeder tube, provided with the injection system, into the first drilled hole. Insert the tip of the syringe containing the insecticide into the feeder tube and slowly inject it into the tree by pressing in on the handle. Some systems have a cup-like device that attaches to the end of the tube rather than a syringe.

5. Remove the syringe and feeder tube, and repeat the process to inject the insecticide into all remaining holes.

Tips & Warnings

• Wear gloves when handling any type of insecticide.

• Do not inject insecticide into a tree more than once per year.

References

• Emerald Ash Borer: Insecticide Options for Protecting Ash Trees from Emerald Ash Borer
• University of Nebraska-Lincoln: Tree Injections and Implants
• Mauget: How to Use Mauget