When Perfect Timing Saves Your Trees
As Iowa’s winter frost gives way to spring sunshine, you might be itching to get outside and start your yard work. But when it comes to tree treatments, especially for threats like the Emerald Ash Borer (EAB), rushing isn’t just ineffective—it could be a waste of your money.
The Right Timing Makes All the Difference
Following Iowa State University Extension recommendations, waiting until full leaf-out ensures treatments actually work. In Iowa, this typically means late May to early June, depending on our weather patterns.
Why does timing matter so much? Trees are just waking up in early spring, and they’re not ready to efficiently distribute treatments throughout their systems. When you wait for full leaf-out:
- Your tree efficiently absorbs the treatment
- The product reaches all parts of the canopy
- You get maximum protection for your investment
- The treatment stays effective for its intended duration
Think of it like taking medicine on an empty vs. full stomach—timing changes everything about how well it works.
Should You Still Treat Your Ash Trees?
This is one of the most common questions we hear, and the answer isn’t a simple yes or no.
If your ash tree has received consistent treatments before showing serious decline, continuing that protection makes sense. Research from experts like Rainbow Treecare Scientific Advancements shows that trees with regular treatment protocols often stay healthy even in heavily infested areas.
Here’s a quick way to decide: If your tree has received injections every two years and still shows more than 70% canopy health, it’s likely worth protecting.
How to Spot a Dying Ash Tree
Not sure if your tree is still viable? Look for these telltale signs:
- Thinning canopy, especially starting at the top
- New shoots growing from the trunk or base (epicormic sprouting)
- Vertical splits in the bark
- S-shaped tunnels under loose bark
- “Blonded” areas where woodpeckers have stripped bark hunting for larvae
Seeing any of these symptoms means it’s time for a professional evaluation—and quickly. Early intervention often determines whether your tree can be saved.
Why Partner with an ISA Certified Arborist?
When protecting your trees (and your wallet), working with an ISA Certified Arborist isn’t just helpful—it’s essential. These professionals have been trained, tested, and continuously educated to:
- Diagnose problems accurately the first time
- Recommend solutions based on science, not sales
- Help you avoid treatments that won’t work
- Create a long-term plan for your landscape’s health
At TreeHugger Complete Tree Care, we don’t guess—we guide. We partner with industry leaders like Rainbow Treecare Scientific Advancements to ensure we’re using proven, research-backed protocols for your trees.
Planning Your Tree Care Calendar
Now’s the perfect time to get on our schedule for late May through June treatments. Even if you’re unsure about your tree’s health, an inspection now saves headaches later.
We proudly serve Ankeny, Des Moines, and surrounding neighborhoods with expert care you can trust.
Ready to Protect Your Trees?
Let’s Talk Don’t wait until it’s too late for your ash trees.
Schedule a free consultation with our ISA Certified Arborists. We’ll help you develop a customized plan to protect your trees.
SCHEDULE YOUR FREE TREE ASSESSMENT →
Our ISA Certified Arborists are scheduling treatments for the optimal May-June window right now.
*Serving Ankeny, Des Moines, and surrounding communities with science-backed tree care solutions.*
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does ash tree treatment cost compared to removal?
Treatment typically costs $10-20 per diameter every two years, while removal of a mature ash tree can range from $1,000-3,000+. Prevention is almost always more economical than removal, especially for established trees.
Can I treat my Ash trees myself?
While DIY options exist, professional treatments typically use higher-concentration formulas that last longer and provide better protection. Home treatments often require annual application and may not penetrate deeply enough to combat established infestations.
What happens if I wait another year to decide?
Once ash trees show more than 30% canopy loss, treatment success rates drop significantly. Each year of delay increases the risk of reaching the point of no return for your tree.
Are there any trees resistant to Emerald Ash Borer?
Native North American ash species have little natural resistance. If replacing ash trees, consider diverse species like Kentucky coffeetree, hackberry, or disease-resistant elms for better long-term resilience.
How do I know if my tree is an ash tree?
Ash trees have compound leaves with 5-11 leaflets, opposite branching pattern (branches grow directly across from each other), and diamond-pattern bark on mature trees. If you’re unsure, our arborists can help with identification. Check out our blog post to find out if it’s too late to save your Ash tree.
This article was created by Dawna Deakins, TreeHugger Complete Tree Care, serving Ankeny, Des Moines, and surrounding Iowa communities with expert tree care services. Our team includes ISA Certified Arborists with extensive experience in tree health management and Emerald Ash Borer treatment. Last updated: May 2025.