The City of Melbourne is taking proactive steps to protect its River Red Gums (Eucalyptus camaldulensis) from the damaging effects of Red Gum Lerp Psyllid (Glycaspis brimblecombei). While periodic infestations are common, recent years have seen a significant increase in psyllid numbers, leading to tree decline.
Maintaining the health of these iconic trees is a priority for the council, and intervention was deemed necessary for several River Red Gums in Royal Park, Parkville that were exhibiting signs of poor to medium health. After careful consideration, tree injection was selected as the safest and most effective method for pesticide application, minimising environmental impact while ensuring pollinator safety—particularly for honey bees and native wildlife.
Why Ema-ject® RTU Tree Injectable Insecticide?
To address the issue, the City of Melbourne chose Ema-ject® RTU Tree Injectable Insecticide, a specialised treatment that is registered (APVMA) for River Red Gums and their associated pest, Red Gum Lerp Psyllid. Developed in Australia by Steve Parton, Managing Director of Environmental Tree Technologies, this water-soluble Emamectin Benzoate formulation offers key benefits:
- Highly systemic in foliage for effective pest control
- No systemic movement into buds, nectar, or pollen, ensuring pollinator safety
- Approved for use in Eucalyptus camaldulensis and pending label for Corymbia maculata
Studies submitted to the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA) confirm that Emamectin Benzoate residues were not detected in buds, nectar, or pollen across tested eucalypt species, reinforcing its safety for native ecosystems.
APVMA approved label for Ema-ject® RTU Tree Injectable Insecticide.
Further studies post registration submission for Ema-ject® have also reinforced the systemic properties and safety of Ema-ject® in other tree species, notably elms & platanus. Label amendments from the APVMA will occur upon acceptance of post-submission studies.
APVMA Approval No: 88692/121997
Trial Execution
The trial is being conducted in Royal Park, where Environmental Tree Technologies’ operations manager, Mick Butters, performed the tree injections. Managing Director Steve Parton designed the trial chemistry rates and oversaw the application process, ensuring best practices in tree care.
Environmental Tree Technologies extends its gratitude to the City of Melbourne for the opportunity to demonstrate the effectiveness of Ema-ject Tree Injectable Insecticide in safeguarding River Red Gums.
If you’re managing River Red Gums affected by Red Gum Lerp Psyllid, contact Elmsavers for expert advice on tree injection treatments. Our team specialises in Ema-ject Tree Injectable Insecticide, providing an effective and environmentally responsible solution for protecting Eucalyptus species.
Call us today or get in touch online to learn more about how we can help safeguard your trees!
- Learn more about Tree Injection
- Read about Insect Treatments for Eucalypts
- Contact us for a Consultation
FAQs
Q: What is Red Gum Lerp Psyllid, and why is it a problem?
A: Red Gum Lerp Psyllid (Glycaspis brimblecombei) is an invasive insect that feeds on the sap of River Red Gums (Eucalyptus camaldulensis). It creates protective lerps (shelter coverings) on leaves, weakening the tree and making it susceptible to decline, defoliation, and secondary infections.
Q: What are the signs of a Red Gum Lerp Psyllid infestation?
A: Symptoms include:
Leaf discoloration (yellowing or browning)
– Sticky honeydew secretion, leading to sooty mould growth
– Visible white lerps (protective coverings) on leaves
– Premature leaf drop and canopy thinning
Q: What is the best way to treat Red Gum Lerp Psyllid in River Red Gums?
A: The most effective treatment is tree injection with Ema-ject Tree Injectable Insecticide. Unlike foliar sprays, tree injection provides targeted, long-lasting pest control without harming beneficial insects like bees and pollinators.
Q: Why is tree injection better than spraying pesticides?
A: Tree injection:
- Delivers the pesticide directly into the tree’s vascular system, reducing environmental contamination.
- Minimises risk to pollinators and beneficial insects, as the pesticide does not enter nectar or pollen.
- Provides long-term protection, reducing the need for repeated treatments.
- Prevents pesticide drift, which can affect non-target plants and animals.
Q: Is Ema-ject Tree Injectable Insecticide safe for bees and wildlife?
A: Yes! Studies submitted to APVMA confirm that Emamectin Benzoate residues were not detected in buds, nectar, or pollen, making it a pollinator-safe solution for controlling Red Gum Lerp Psyllid.
Q: How long does Ema-ject Tree Injectable Insecticide last?
A: Tree injection provides long-term protection for up to two years, reducing the need for frequent reapplications.
Q: Can tree injection be used on other Eucalyptus species?
A: Yes! Ema-ject Tree Injectable Insecticide is suitable for multiple Eucalyptus and Corymbia species, making it an effective solution for protecting urban and native forests.
Q: How can I get a tree injection treatment for my River Red Gums?
A: If you have River Red Gums affected by Red Gum Lerp Psyllid, contact Elmsavers for a professional assessment.
