Are Termites Attracted to Stumps?
West Atlanta Tree • August 9, 2021
Do I need to be worried about stumps attracting termites in my yard?
This is a question that a lot of homeowners have. Termites and other wood-boring pests are estimated to cause $30 billion in damage to crops, homes, and other man-made buildings, according to statistics. Termites are eusocial insects that feed on the organic stuff that makes up wood (cellulose).
Unfortunately for homeowners, this can result in significant structural damage in the event of an infestation, which is why it's crucial to understand what attracts termites.
So, can termites be attracted to an old tree stump in your yard? Yes, tree stumps can attract termites, to give you a quick response.
Dampwood and subterranean termites are two types of termites that are attracted to tree stumps. The normal and most prevalent type of termite is the subterranean termite. They'll eat just about any form of cellulose-containing wood or substance.
Dampwood termites, on the other hand, like to eat rotting and decaying wood. If you detect dampwood termites in a tree stump, they shouldn't be a concern for your home right away. On the other hand, subterranean termites are a different matter.
Signs of a Tree Stump Termite Infestation
If you search for a few clues, you can usually tell if a tree stump is infested with termites. The presence of hollowed wood is first and foremost.
Termites don't usually eat from the outside of a building. Rather, they start feeding inside the structure and work their way out. Termites are likely to have invaded the tree stump if it appears or feels hollowed.
Poking the tree stump with a screwdriver is a simple test for determining if it is hollowed. It's generally because the inside has been chewed away by termites if the screwdriver slides through with reasonable ease.
The presence of lost wings in a tree stump is another symptom of a termite infestation. Termites and flying ants both have wings, however the latter does not use them. As a result, discarded wings found on or near a tree stump are a sign of a termite infestation.
Remove the Stump
The good news is that removing the tree stump from your yard will typically solve the problem. Turning a blind eye will simply exacerbate the situation.
Termites will move on to other adjacent wooden buildings, including your home, once the stump has been consumed. If you suspect a tree stump in your yard is infested with termites, have it removed as soon as possible to avoid costly damage to your home and property.
Tree planting, tree pruning and shrub trimming, tree removal and stump grinding, as well as a tree wellness program, are all services provided by West Atlanta Tree.
Give us a call at 770-830-3828 if we can assist you with any of your tree care needs.
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