in the outer ring of xylem and that’s where 95% of uptake is.” Industry experts are also predicting a change in the chemicals themselves: Neonicotinoids (often called “neonics”), a class of synthetic, neurotoxic insec- ticides, were created to replace the harmful organophosphates, but now even the neonics are facing increasing restrictions. “People are going back to using or- ganophosphates, which are a little more hazardous, but legal,” Brewer ex- plained. “Right now, there’s still kind of a gap… So, I think you’ll see safer replacements start to come out in that department.” While treatment will never be a one- sized-fits-all approach, arborists should instead strive to understand the biolo- gy, chemistry, site conditions and the customer’s goals when considering the right approach. And when used thoughtfully, both micro- and macro-in- jections can deliver long-term sustain- able plant health care. WHERE SCIENCE MEETS STEWARDSHIP For all the advances in chemistry, delivery systems, and diagnostics, the future of plant health care will still depend on sound arboricultural judgment. New products may become more targeted, less invasive, and more environmentally compatible, but no injection, drench, or spray can replace a thorough understanding of tree biology and site conditions. As the PHC toolbox continues to ex- pand, arborists will have more options than ever before. The challenge — and the opportunity — will be knowing not just how to treat a tree, but when treat- ment is appropriate, what outcome is realistic, and how to balance efficacy, cost, and environmental responsibil- ity. In that sense, the future of plant health care is not simply about better products.
To treat this pine for bark beetles, the arborist chose the Wedgle Direct Inject from ArborSystems, which eliminates the need for drilling.
times it takes a little longer for you to see the results, but compared to what we call conventional chemistry, it’s softer in its mode of action.” Delivery systems are also seeing some new innovations: The Wedgle from ArborSystems is designed to offer an alternative to what Doolittle calls the “drill and tap” methods. The device injects chemicals directly through the bark without the need for drilling. He said the vascular system remains undisturbed, maintaining nutrient movement, and the process only takes an estimated 15 seconds per injection site, with an even smaller amount of chemical required. “We’re not wasting the chemical in the wood of the tree where it locks up,” Doolittle stated. “We’re putting it all
to some of the immunotherapy drugs made for humans. “It actually precipitates the immune response of the plant,” he said. “Some-
RELIANT is a systemic fungicide with mobility through both the xylem and phloem, allowing it to circulate throughout every part of the plant.
It’s about making better decisions.
22 | Summer 2026 ArborTIMES ™
Made with FlippingBook - professional solution for displaying marketing and sales documents online