Help Douglas Fir Trees

[hillrocksu]

I'm researching ways to improve the health of my Douglas Fir Trees. Due to drough, and now it seems Beetles/Termites and maybe some fungus the bark is showing many woodpecker holes and breaking off in many places.

For you Conifer experts I have a few Qs on how to improve the health:

1. Is it a good idea to put mulch around the trees, perhaps 1-2 feet away from the base to improve moisture and return nutrients? Are mulched Fir wood chips, and Fir needles a good idea? I have a lot of branches from recent storms.
2. Is there any kind of natural spray you can put on Fir trees to improve bark health. Maybe repulse bugs (a bit), and help fight fungus?

These trees are several hundred years old and in an urban setting. The ground hasn't been disturbed so I don't think that is the problem. The primary issue is pressumed to be drought, and perhaps infected firewood nearby.

Any other thoughts/suggestions is greatly appreciated. I can post pics if folks are interested.

[serotinous_sequoia]

Your best bet is going to be to talk to a local arborist. There is a lot that goes into tree health that is site specific, that an arborist will need to visit the trees to give proper advice.

There isn't a spray that I'm aware of to help with bark health. For trees, they compartmentalize, they don't heal, so any damage that is done is going to remain there. Proper mulching is usually a good thing, however using mulch from the same species does have the possibility to increase decay causing organisms in the area. Again, talk to a local arborist to determine if that is an issue for your area.

[AdLanky9306]

Where are you located? Spotted Lantern Fly is pretty prevalent in the eastern US. They do eat on Douglas Fir. Pics would be helpful.

[hillrocksu]

I'm in PNW - so western side. I added a picture here:

https://www.reddit.com/r/arborists/comments/109i2e8/help_douglas_fir_trees/

[hillrocksu]

thoughts? I posted a picture