Choosing the Right Approach: How Modern Tree Treatment Methods Can Save Your Landscape Investment

When your trees face pest infestations or diseases, the treatment method you choose can make the difference between thriving, healthy trees and costly landscape replacements. Today’s arborists have two primary approaches at their disposal: systemic treatments that work from within the tree’s vascular system, and topical applications that target problems from the outside. Understanding when to use each method is crucial for effective, long-lasting tree care.

Understanding Systemic Tree Treatments

Systemic insecticides reach every branch of the tree, as well as the sap. So whether the pest infests bark, wood, or sap, they will ingest the poison and die. These treatments work by utilizing the tree’s natural circulatory system to distribute protective compounds throughout the entire plant structure.

Injected formulations control tree pests for up to two years, expanding the window of treatment. This extended protection period makes systemic treatments particularly valuable for homeowners seeking long-term pest management solutions.

There are several methods for delivering systemic treatments:

Trunk Injection: Injection systems insert product directly into the tree or soil, whereas sprays are applied in a mist to the outside of the plant.
Soil Application: This is usually performed by applying a product within a foot of the trunk where the fibrous roots absorb it and move it up the vascular system to the canopy.
Bark Spray Applications: Newer chemistries, such as dinotefuran (Transtect,) have the ability to move through the lenticels into the tree, and move systemically to the rest of the limbs and canopy. This allows an applicator to simply spray the trunk, from about eye height down to the base, and protect the entire tree.

The Benefits of Systemic Treatments

Systemic treatments offer several advantages over traditional spraying methods. Many systemic insecticides are safer than sprays and won’t kill essential insects such as bees and other pollinators. They also don’t spread to other areas of the property like sprays, reducing the risk of interference with the ecosystem.

In addition, systemic treatments usually last longer than topical sprays, which may have to be applied multiple times per year, advises ArborJet. They are also safer for bees and other pollinators since you won’t accidentally spray these beneficial insects.

For property owners, this translates to fewer applications needed throughout the year and reduced environmental impact on beneficial insects that are crucial for garden health.

When Topical Treatments Make Sense

Topical treatments, including foliar sprays and surface applications, remain essential tools in tree care. Topical sprays work best on smaller trees so all branches can be reached. Sprays are recommended when insects are present, so the chemicals come into direct contact with the insects.

Professional tree spraying service providers often recommend topical treatments for immediate pest control situations where quick knockdown of active infestations is needed. Unlike systemic treatments, the systemic insecticide can take some time to move through the tree, while topical applications provide immediate contact control.

Timing Considerations for Both Methods

Typically, applying a systemic insecticide before pest damage appears is best. This preventive approach allows the treatment to be fully distributed throughout the tree before pests become active.

For optimal results with systemic treatments, the best results for systemic treatments occur when the trees are: Actively Growing – Growing trees take up water and move injected control compounds better. We recommend fall applications only when leaves are still on the trees.

Professional Assessment is Key

The choice between systemic and topical treatments should always be based on professional assessment. Factors to consider include:

Tree species and size
Type and severity of pest or disease
Environmental conditions
Proximity to sensitive areas like water sources or pollinator habitats
Treatment timing and seasonal considerations

Long Island’s Trusted Tree Care Partner

Jones Tree is owned and operated by Thomas Jones – New York State Board Certified Arborist, and member of the Long Island Arborist Association. Serving Suffolk County and surrounding areas, As a licensed arborist, Jones is committed to providing scientifically based landscape management and delivering quality services. Jones Tree and Plant Care will inspect your landscape, diagnose any problems, and make recommendations based on knowledge and expertise gained through over 10 years of experience in the industry.

Jones Tree and Plant Care tailors specific programs based on the needs of each individual customer and property. A total tree and plant care approach will improve growth, condition and curb appeal of your property, all while using environmentally sensitive, affordable treatments.

Making the Right Choice for Your Trees

The decision between systemic and topical treatments isn’t always either/or. Many comprehensive tree care programs incorporate both methods strategically. Systemic insecticides work well for boring insects and cause less impact on the environment. Meanwhile, topical applications excel at providing immediate relief from active infestations and treating localized problems.

Working with a certified arborist ensures you receive the most appropriate treatment recommendation based on your specific situation. As a certified arborist, Thomas Jones receives continuous education and instruction on the latest techniques and trends in landscape design, as does the entire staff at Jones Tree and Plant Care. We implement the best research-supported strategies, yet we custom-tailor our approach based on the needs of each individual client and property.

Whether you’re dealing with an active pest problem or want to implement a preventive care program, understanding the strengths of both systemic and topical treatments will help you make informed decisions about your tree care investments. The right treatment approach, applied at the optimal time, can extend the life of your trees while protecting the broader landscape ecosystem.