Twig Girdler vs. Borer in Young Sugar Maples

15-foot sugar maples planted last December have half-inch branches severed with larvae inside. Owner asks about insecticide timing.

Likely Twig Girdler/Pruner, Not Borer

These beetles lay eggs in twigs, then cut them off. Larvae develop in the fallen twig on the ground—not in the tree.

Cultural Control (Best)

• Collect and destroy fallen twigs (burn or remove from property).
• This eliminates larvae and reduces next year's population.

Chemical Option

Systemic soil-applied imidacloprid (Bayer Advanced for Trees) may kill egg-laying beetles when they feed, but cultural control is more reliable and immediate.

Check with local nursery for product availability.