Does My Palo Verde Tree Have Borers?

Have you found holes in the ground near your Palo Verde tree, noticed a large dark beetle, or become concerned about thinning branches? You may be wondering whether Palo Verde borers are damaging your tree and whether it can be saved.

A beetle sighting or a hole near the tree is a reason to investigate, but it does not establish why your tree looks unhealthy. Warner will examine the tree and growing conditions before recommending what to do next.

Call Warner's Tree Surgery at 480-969-8808 to discuss your Palo Verde tree.

Watch: A Mesa Homeowner Asks Warner About Palo Verde Borers

What Are Palo Verde Root Borers?

Palo Verde root borers are the immature grub stage of a large beetle. The grubs feed on roots underground. Adult beetles can emerge through holes in the soil during the summer rainy season. These are root-feeding insects, so holes in a trunk or branch should not automatically be blamed on Palo Verde root borers.

What Should You Look For?

  • New holes in the soil near the tree.
  • Large dark beetles appearing during summer.
  • A canopy that is becoming noticeably thinner.
  • Branches that are dying back or growing poorly.
  • A change in the tree's lean or movement around its base.

These observations do not confirm a borer infestation. Watering problems, damaged roots, and other conditions also need to be considered. Tell Warner when the changes started and whether irrigation, digging, landscaping, or construction recently changed.

Can Palo Verde Borers Be Treated?

There is no reliably effective insecticide treatment for Palo Verde root borers. University of Arizona Cooperative Extension does not recommend a chemical control for this pest. Be cautious of promises that a spray, soil treatment, or injection will eliminate grubs already feeding inside roots.

The practical approach is to assess the tree's condition and support appropriate growing conditions. Warner can review watering, drainage, visible damage, and the tree's overall appearance. Recommendations depend on what the inspection finds.

What Can You Do Before an Inspection?

  • Photograph the whole tree, affected branches, and any holes or beetles you notice.
  • Record your irrigation schedule and any recent changes.
  • Avoid digging around the roots to search for grubs.
  • Do not pour insecticide, bleach, gasoline, or other household chemicals into holes.
  • Avoid suddenly increasing watering or adding fertilizer simply because the tree looks stressed.

If the tree develops a new lean, the soil lifts around its base, or large branches begin breaking, keep people and pets away and arrange a prompt tree-risk assessment.

Can My Palo Verde Tree Be Saved?

Finding a beetle does not mean your tree must be removed. An inspection is needed to discuss its condition, possible causes of decline, and realistic options. No responsible recommendation can guarantee recovery before the tree is evaluated.

Talk to Warner About Your Palo Verde Tree

Warner has been working with sick trees since he was 20 years old. He brings decades of practical experience to homeowners concerned about their trees.

Appointments are limited to addresses within 10 miles of 84 E Hope St, Mesa, Arizona. This includes qualifying locations in Mesa and nearby parts of Tempe, Scottsdale, Chandler, and Gilbert. Call to confirm that your address is within the service area.

Warner's Tree Surgery
Palo Verde tree evaluations in the Mesa area
Call 480-969-8808

Related Palo Verde Problems

Reference: University of Arizona Cooperative Extension: Mesquite and Palo Verde Trees for the Urban Landscape

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