[dbldee20]

I have an oak tree located about 30ft from my house. the tree is at least 75-100 years old. A friend of mine who does tree work was recently thinning it out and he cut off a dead limb close to 15" in diameter that was infested with carpenter ants. It was cold so they weren't moving much. He cut off all the dead limbs in the tree, but only found one infested limb. He removed the infested limb from my property.

Should I be concerned that there are more nesting in the tree? I want to preserve the tree the best I can. Its a definite asset to my property and would cost A LOT of money to cut down. It just started flowering and he said it appears to be healthy. (no dead wood)

Is there anything I can use to possibly kill any more ants if they are nesting anywhere else in the tree? Or prevent them from nesting there in future?

Thanks for any feedback

 

[chrisn]

If there is no more large dead wood , then there will be no more ants nesting.

 

[PAbugman]

The disruption of their nest would likely have caused them to move if any were still there. The chance of re-infestation is high, though.

If you can get Termidor, treat the base of the trunk, about 4-6 ft as a coarse fan spray once or twice a year. If you cant get Termidor, then any spray with the active ingredient: Bi-fenthrin will work well, too. Treat more frequently in the warmer months; maybe once a month. If you can spray up high enough to get the material into the opening where limb was removed, then do so to establish a residual.

Some on-line sites do sell Termidor, if it is legal in your state. I have never purchased from these sites, don't personally know anyone who has and have no financial or other interest in them. Buyer beware. They do show the correct label and packaging.

Bi-fenthrin containing products are available in the box-stores over the counter.

 

[user1007]

I would call your local arborist for suggestions. I always find them more than willing to be helpful.

 

[chrisn]

I would call your local arborist for suggestions. I always find them more than willing to be helpful.

That was me 20 years ago!:whistling2:

 

[user1007]

That was me 20 years ago!:whistling2:

Or maybe location plays a part. I do suspect you are correct and many have had budgets slashed. I guess I have been lucky to live the last 20 years in places where they are respected and funded.
:thumbsup: