To reduce dogwood borer trunk injury, which practice is recommended?

• A. Mulch around the base
• B. Remove all branches
• C. Drill holes around trunk
• D. Never water near trunk

Answer: (A)

Keeping the tree healthy and less stressed is the key to reducing dogwood borer trunk injury. Mulching around the base helps maintain consistent soil moisture and root-zone temperature, which supports root and overall tree vigor. A strong, well-hydrated tree is better able to resist infestations and heal any trunk wounds, making it less attractive to borers and less prone to long-term injury.

Drilling holes around the trunk would create wounds that can invite pests and pathogens, not protect the tree. Removing all branches would stress the tree and weaken it, increasing vulnerability. Never watering near the trunk doesn’t address trunk injury and can neglect proper root-zone moisture; in practice, watering at the root zone supports vigor, which helps resist borers.