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Apple Tree Sudden Branch Death: Flatheaded Borer Treatment

Diagnosis

Rapid wilting, browning, sap weeping on multiple large branches of 7-year-old apple = flatheaded apple borer. Larvae tunnel under bark, girdling limbs.

Treatment

Prune out dead branches (destroy them).
Hire tree care company for systemic insecticide trunk injection.

Prevention

Maintain tree vigor with proper watering/fertilizing. Stressed trees attract borers.

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