Question
QUESTION: I have discovered my maple tree arrox 30 yrs old has a disease on the bark which has killed one limb and is lifting sections of bark as it travels up the tree. Can you tell me what to do about it and what could be causing it.I live in Victoria ,Australia

ANSWER: Hi Ruth:
Thanks for your question. In the subject line of your message, you had indicated a borer.  Has your maple been diagnosed with borer (insect)damage? I am unclear as to your question.
Steve

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QUESTION: Thnks for responding, I need to know how to get rid of the borer in this maple tree.Can you tell me how?
regards ruth Nickless

Answer
Ruth:

Once in the tree, borers are difficult if not impossible to kill inside the tree.  If you want to try something, contact your local garden center and ask about a systemic insecticide for trees called Bayer Tree and Shrub Insect Control.  It comes in a blue plastic bottle and is a liquid concentrate that you mix w/water according to the label and apply to the soil.  The tree takes it up through the roots.  It has the insecticide Imidachloropid in it. This is probably your best bet- otherwise good fertility and water to promote tree vigor can help the tree withstand the stress imposed by the insect.

Regards
Steve