Carpenter Ants in Oak Trees: Nest in Decay, Not Primary Killers

40 mi N. Houston: carpenter ants hollowing trees, dropping sawdust. Ortho Max, malathion failing. Feed tree to regenerate?

Ants = Symptom, Not Cause

Carpenter ants nest in existing decayed wood. They don't kill healthy wood. Stress, injury, disease created the decay.

Control

• Dust insecticide (pyrethroids/carbaryl) directly into nest cavity
• Retreat annually
• Don't seal cavities
• Don't cut viable trees

Tree Health

• Soil test → fertilize per results
• Proper watering
• Arborist for hazard assessment