Q.Sawdust At Tree Base
Hello, I have an apple tree in the back garden which has a growing mound of sawdust next to it at the base. There is a cavity where the sawdust is coming from, but when I put my hand in, I can only find woodlouse in there. I am worried that the tree is going to become so weakened it will fall over. Is there any way to identify (and then stop) whatever it is that is causing this? I have attached a photo if it helps Any help would be greatly appreciated Thanks Pete
Certified GKH Gardening Expert
Boy are you brave to stick your hand inside the hole. Do you see any ants coming and going? All my research pointed to carpenter ants. They don't eat the wood, but create tunnels in dead, moist wood, then deposit the sawdust in piles at the base of the tree.
Apparently, no control is necessary because they aren't eating the wood, only living in it. However, you may want to monitor the structure of the tree, because your tree may be more vulnerable to storm damage.
https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/carpenter_ants_nesting_in_trees_and_homes
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/insects/home-remedies-carpenter-ants.htm
