Polyphagous Shot Hole Borer Beetle in Cape Town: How to Spot, Treat & Prevent Infestation

Introduction

The Polyphagous Shot Hole Borer (PSHB) beetle (Euwallacea fornicatus) is an invasive ambrosia beetle approximately 2 mm in length. It infests a wide range of tree species, introducing symbiotic fungi that disrupt the tree’s vascular system, often leading to dieback or death (City of Cape Town, 2025). Infestations have been reported in Durbanville and other suburbs across Cape Town, prompting increased awareness and intervention by local authorities.

What are the Symptoms of Infested Trees

Early detection is critical to controlling PSHB spread. Common indicators include:

• Small round holes (~2–3 mm) on trunks and branches
• Oozing sap or dark staining under the bark
• Wilting, yellowing, or premature leaf drop
• Presence of fungal fruiting bodies or dark streaks beneath the bark

Visual confirmation by a trained arborist is recommended for accurate diagnosis (City of Cape Town, 2025).

If you notice any of these symptoms, schedule a professional tree inspection immediately to protect your property. We offer excellent tree services in Cape Town.

Which trees are Susceptible?

PSHB attacks both indigenous and exotic trees commonly found in urban areas. Notable species include:

• Oak
• Plane
• Sycamore
• Avocado
• Maple
• Coral Tree

These species are particularly vulnerable to infestation, especially in residential gardens, streetscapes, and parks.

Recommended Management Actions

Professional management is essential to prevent the spread of PSHB:

1. Arborist Inspection: Certified arborists assess the extent of infestation.
2. Tree Removal: Infected trees may require removal; proper disposal is crucial to prevent further spread.
3. Quarantine Measures: Avoid moving wood or plant material from infected trees.
4. Reporting: Residents should notify the City of Cape Town’s Invasive Species Unit:
   • Email: invasive.species@capetown.gov.za
   • Phone: 021 400 1311 (City of Cape Town, 2025)
   • Cape Town municipal areas:
   • Call the City’s Invasive Species Unit on 021 444 2357, Monday to Friday, from 07:30 to 16:00
   • Send an email to: invasive.species@capetown.gov.za

Michael’s Tree Felling can perform safe inspections and removal of PSHB-infected trees in Cape Town suburbs. Call Us at:

How to Safely Dispose of PSHB-Infested Trees and Wood

Proper disposal of trees or wood infested by the Polyphagous Shot Hole Borer (PSHB) beetle is essential to prevent the pest from spreading further across Cape Town. Once a tree is confirmed to be infected, the goal is to contain, treat, and destroy the infested material under controlled conditions.

Step-by-Step Disposal Guidelines

1. Chip the infested wood
   Break down the infected tree or branches into small chips. This helps reduce the beetle’s ability to survive inside the wood.
2. Seal and solarise the material
   Place the wood chips or small cut pieces into heavy-duty refuse or solarisation plastic bags. Seal the bags tightly and leave them in direct sunlight for at least six weeks during summer or up to six months during winter.
   The heat that builds up inside the sealed bags kills both the beetles and their larvae.
3. Compost or incinerate
   You can dump the chips in a well-maintained compost heap, where the natural heat from decomposition will destroy the beetles.
   Alternatively, take the wood chips to an approved incineration facility for safe burning.
4. If chipping isn’t possible
   Cut larger pieces of infested wood into smaller sections that can fit into solarisation bags. Follow the same process, seal tightly and leave in direct sunlight for the required period.
5. Avoid spreading the infestation
   • Do not transport infested trees, branches, or firewood outside of known PSHB zones.
   • Never move green waste in open vehicles. If transport is necessary, cover the load securely with a tarpaulin or sail cover.
   • Clean all tools and equipment (chainsaws, axes, pruning tools, etc.) after working on infected or suspected trees to prevent cross-contamination.
6. Use trained service providers
   Always seek help from qualified tree specialists who have the right equipment and knowledge of PSHB-safe handling methods.

Official Solarisation Site

The City of Cape Town has designated a solarisation site at the Chukker Road Sports Complex in Kenwyn for the safe treatment of PSHB-infested material. This location is designed for controlled solarisation to help contain and destroy beetle populations effectively.

Role of Tree Services

Professional tree service providers play a key role in:

• Safe removal of PSHB-infected trees.
• Proper disposal of infected wood to prevent beetle spread.
• Monitoring and treatment programs to protect urban forests.

Michael’s Tree Felling follows certified arborist protocols aligned with municipal recommendations, ensuring safe and effective management of PSHB threats. We offer excellent tree service in Constantia and in Durbanville. We also cover the rest of Cape Town.

Conclusion

The PSHB beetle represents a significant threat to Cape Town’s trees. Timely identification, professional intervention, and adherence to preventive measures are essential to controlling its spread. Local authorities and certified arborists provide guidance and services to protect both private and public trees.

Book a Free Tree Health Inspection Today. Protect your property and neighbourhood from the PSHB threat. Call us at

References

1. City of Cape Town. (2025). Polyphagous Shot Hole Borer Beetle. Retrieved from https://www.capetown.gov.za/general/polyphagous-shot-hole-borer
2. USDA Forest Service. (2023). Polyphagous Shot Hole Borer: Identification and Management.
3. Mendel, Z., Protasov, A., et al. (2012). The biology and management of Euwallacea fornicatus. Journal of Insect Science.