Also, extensive pruning suddenly exposes previously shaded bark to direct sunlight, which can result in sun scald cankers that are susceptible to borer attack. Sanitation is critical for reducing beetle numbers. Until the wood dries below a critical level, it remains suitable and highly attractive to ovipositing beetles. Anything that can be done to speed the drying process, such as cutting and splitting wood, helps to reduce the length of time the wood can support beetle development. If the wood is already infested, it should be treated or destroyed.
Chipped eucalyptus makes an excellent mulch.
Alternatively, remove the bark from felled logs or solarize the wood by placing it in a sunny location for 10 to 12 weeks and covering it with ultraviolet-resistant plastic. This prevents new beetles from attacking and resident beetles from emerging and flying to nearby living eucalyptus. Solarized wood can be stored for firewood. Biological Control Biological control with natural enemies may provide the best long-term solution to longhorned borer problems. If beetle populations are reduced to low levels, natural enemies are better able to keep populations in check, and vigorous trees can survive a few attacks.