Peachtree borer

You will see gummy masses containing sawdust and frass exuding from tree trunks near the soil line, typically three inches above to one foot below ground level. This is the first sign of peachtree borer damage. Larval galleries girdle the tree, causing foliage to yellow and wilt. Full-grown larvae are one to one-and-a-half inches long with whitish bodies and brown heads. Trees decline rapidly under heavy infestation.

Identify infested trees by observing gum exudation and frass at the base. Remove larvae by carefully probing with a flexible wire into galleries if trees are valuable and young. Wrap trunks with protective barriers in fall to prevent egg-laying. Apply pheromone sprays during summer flight period.