Question From: Kalispell, Montana, United States
Q: We have service berry trees/shrubs with uniform holes around the trunk and then softer, whitish places further up the trunk/stem. It looks like insect damage and they maybe emerged from underneath the bark. It looks a bit like woodpecker damage, but is occurring even on small diameter trunks. Any insight would be welcome. Thanks, Melaina
A: Sounds like borers. Once they become established they are hard to control. Use of a Systemic such as Bonide Tree and Shrub Insect Control may work. I'd get advice from a certified arborist. To locate one in your area go to tcia.org. Best And Happy Yardening, Nancy
