I have recently transplanted a number of larger western red cedars in Nov. 07. However, I have notice that several of them have tiny holes in the main trunk and a very fine powdery sawdust (frass) around the bottom of the trunk and at various above where the branches come out of the trunk. My research suggests it may be some type of beetle that is now making is way out of the trunk. Is this possible for otherwise healthy trees? Any thoughts about what to do. Will the trees die? Thanks.
Definitely sounds like something is boring them. Borers are often attracted to distressed trees, your transplants may need more frequent or otherwise generous watering or some other assistance.
Thanks for the reply. It does appear to be a borer of some kind - maybe the powder post beetle or the false powder post beetle. The critters appear to be black or reddish brown with horn type antennae. However, I wasn't aware that live relatively healthy cedar trees suffered from these borer beetles. It appears that the are scattered throughout these cedar trees trunks as there are many small holes in the trunk of the tree. I have been regularly watering them. Any other input is welcome.
