Integrated Pest Management (IPM) for Elm Leaf Beetle

Ready for a Free Consultation? Whether you’re noticing early leaf skeletonising or want a proactive protection plan, Tasmanian Arbor Care is here to help. Our team provides on-site inspections, detailed recommendations and no-obligation quotes.

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What is IPM and why does it matter?

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is a decision-making framework that uses multiple, complementary tactics to keep pest populations below damaging levels. Rather than relying on a single “spray-and-forget” solution, IPM:

  • Monitors pest life cycles and infestation levels

  • Prioritises non-chemical methods (like beneficial insects) wherever possible

  • Targets chemical treatments precisely when and where they’re needed

  • Evaluates outcomes and adapts over time

Our Elm Leaf Beetle Services

1. Biological Control

  • Release green Lacewings (eggs or larvae) that feed on elm leaf beetle eggs and young larvae

  • Release lady beetles (both adults and larvae) for ongoing patrols in your canopy

  • Provide habitat enhancement advice: planting flowering understory to keep predators on site

  • Monitoring and timing to ensure releases coincide with early elm leaf beetle stages

2. Trunk injection Treatments

  • Apply approved Arborjet Products (e.g. imidacloprid and emamectin formulations)

  • Professional application by our licensed arborists, drilling minimally invasive holes

  • Precise dosages based on tree diameter and infestation severity

  • Safety & compliance strictly to APVMA labels and Tasmanian regulations

How we Work

  1. Initial Inspection & Assessment: We examine your elm’s health, record beetle damage and estimate canopy and pest density. Photos and notes help us tailor the right IPM mix.

  2. Develop a Custom IPM Plan: For light to moderate infestations, we prioritise beneficial-insect releases and habitat improvements. For heavy or repeat outbreaks, we schedule trunk injections alongside biological measures.

  3. Implementation: Biocontrol releases and guidance, and precise trunk injections with wound plugging for fast healing.

  4. Monitoring & Follow-Up: We revisit 4–6 weeks post-treatment to assess activity and tree response, adjusting as needed.

  5. Long-Term Care: Regular check-ins for future injections (every 2–3 years) and seasonal biocontrol releases, plus cultural care recommendations.

Key Benefits of our IPM approach

  • Minimal non-target impact, preserving pollinators and wildlife

  • Long-term tree health with multi-year protection

  • Cost-effective by reducing repeat treatments

  • Professional expertise ensuring safety and compliance

  • Transparent monitoring with clear reporting