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Birch trees are Minnesota favorites, but they have two major enemies that can cause serious damage. If your birch tree looks sick, one of these pests is likely the cause. Here’s what to look for.

Pest #1: The Tree Killer – Bronze Birch Borer

This is the most dangerous pest for birch trees in our area. It works under the bark, cutting off the tree's life supply.

Look for these warning signs:

• Thinning Leaves: The top of the tree starts to look thin and weak.

• Dying Branches: Branches at the top of the tree begin to die and lose their leaves.

• D-Shaped Holes: You might see small, D-shaped holes in the bark.

A Bronze Birch Borer attack is a serious threat to your tree's survival. Early detection is everything.

Pest #2: The Leaf Damager – Birch Leafminer

This pest won't kill a healthy tree on its own, but it weakens it significantly, making it an easy target for the deadly Bronze Birch Borer.

Look for these warning signs:

• Brown Blotches: Leaves develop ugly, brown patches that look like blisters.

• "Scorched" Look: The whole tree can look brown and scorched by mid-summer.

• Early Leaf Drop: The tree may lose its leaves long before fall.

Don't Guess, Get an Expert Evaluation

Spotting these symptoms is the first step, but a correct diagnosis is key to saving your tree. The only way to know for sure what’s wrong and...