Royal Tree Service Sioux Falls, SD

Ash Tree Care in Sioux Falls, SD

How to identify, protect, and treat ash trees threatened by Emerald Ash Borer — from a Sioux Falls EAB certified crew.

Quick Answer

Ash trees in Sioux Falls are at serious risk from Emerald Ash Borer. Trunk injection treatment protects your tree for 2 years and is most effective before 30% canopy loss.

  • D-shaped exit holes (1/8") and S-shaped bark galleries = active EAB
  • Treatment works best with less than 30% crown dieback
  • Trees with 50%+ dieback should be removed, not treated
  • EAB confirmed in Minnehaha County — don't wait to assess
  • Use our free calculator for an instant price estimate
From our crew: We've treated hundreds of ash trees across Sioux Falls. The most common mistake we see is homeowners waiting too long — by the time the tree looks obviously sick, it's often past the treatment window. If your ash tree is showing any dieback at the top, call us for a free assessment before deciding.

How to Identify Your Ash Tree

Green ash is the most common ash species in Sioux Falls. Look for opposite, compound leaves with 5–9 leaflets, a diamond-patterned bark on mature trees, and clusters of winged seeds (samaras) that hang in bunches through winter.

Signs of EAB Infestation

  • D-shaped exit holes — about 1/8 inch wide, distinctive flat edge on one side
  • S-shaped galleries — winding tunnels visible when you peel loose bark
  • Crown dieback — dead branches starting at the very top, spreading down
  • Increased woodpecker activity — birds feeding aggressively on the trunk
  • Vertical bark cracks — the tree's stress response to larval damage underneath
  • Epicormic sprouts — new growth shooting from the base or main trunk

Treatment vs. Removal — How We Decide

When we assess an ash tree in Sioux Falls, we look at total canopy dieback. Less than 30% loss — treatment is almost always the right call. Between 30–50% — we assess case by case. More than 50% — removal is typically the better investment.

How Trunk Injection Treatment Works

We inject the treatment directly into the tree's vascular system using small ports drilled at the base of the trunk. The treatment circulates throughout the entire tree within a few weeks, reaching the cambium layer where EAB larvae feed. No spraying, no soil drenching — the treatment stays inside the tree.

One treatment lasts 2 years. Use our free EAB Treatment Calculator to get an instant price estimate for your trees.

What Does EAB Treatment Cost?

Pricing is based on your tree's trunk circumference. Use our free EAB cost calculator for an instant quote — just enter the circumference of each ash tree and you'll get your personalized estimate sent directly to your email.

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my ash tree has EAB?
Look for D-shaped exit holes about 1/8 inch wide in the bark, S-shaped galleries under loose bark, crown dieback starting at the top, and increased woodpecker activity. Trees typically show visible decline 2-3 years into an infestation.
Can an ash tree with EAB be saved?
Yes, if caught before 30% canopy loss. Trunk injection treatment is highly effective at this stage and protects the tree for 2 years. Trees with over 50% canopy loss should generally be removed.
How much does EAB treatment cost in Sioux Falls?
Pricing is based on your tree's trunk circumference. Use our free EAB Treatment Calculator at royaltreesf.com/eab-calculator for an instant quote sent directly to your email.
How often does an ash tree need EAB treatment?
Trunk injection EAB treatment protects your ash tree for 2 years. After 2 years, retreatment is required to maintain protection against Emerald Ash Borer.
Is EAB present in Sioux Falls?
Yes. Emerald Ash Borer has been confirmed in Minnehaha County. All ash trees in the Sioux Falls area are considered at risk and should be assessed.

Protect Your Ash Trees

Free written estimates in Sioux Falls, Brandon, Harrisburg, and surrounding areas.