Maple Borer Infestation: Wetwood Misdiagnosis

Wet bark streak with 1/4" silver worms on maple indicates borers—not wetwood. Wetwood is bacterial, foul-smelling liquid without insects.

Correct Diagnosis

• Borers: Insect larvae in tunnels, sawdust frass, entry/exit holes
• Wetwood: Bacteria, fermentative odor, no insects, dark streaking
• Your "worms" = borer larvae

Treatment

1. Spray affected area with imidacloprid (Merit)
2. Systemic soil drench for ongoing protection
3. Fertilize to boost tree vigor (10-10-10, 1 lb/inch diameter)
4. Tree will compartmentalize wound after borers controlled

Don't panic—borers in maples are treatable. Imidacloprid stops current infestation; fertilization prevents recurrence.