Tree Stress and the Bronze Birch Borer

Abstract

Fast-growing, white-barked birches are more likely to suffer from drought stress, when water demand exceeds water supply, than slow-growing trees. Artificial watering and fertilization may postpone stress, and subsequent attack by the bronze birch borer, for as long as those practices are continued. Branch damage by other insects, as well as excessive trimming, may cause sufficient localized stress to trigger oviposition by the borers.