By Jay Goughnour, Upper Midwest Technical Manager
Arborplugs are the cornerstone of the Arborjet tree injection methodology. This quick primer will answer some basic questions about what they are and how they work.
What is the Arborplug®?
The Arborplug is a permanent port used during trunk injection treatments. Once installed, it creates a tight seal that helps direct formulation into the tree’s vascular system while minimizing product loss during and after application. Patented by Arborjet, Arborplug technology is a proprietary feature of its trunk injection system.
Why use Arborplugs?
Arborplugs help:
- Seal product in the tree for less leaking and better retention
- Enable high-pressure injections for faster uptake
- Improve access to vascular tissue within the tree
- Prevents pathogens and insects from accessing injection site
While trunk injections can be performed without plugs, our experts find that the permanent port is the preferred method.
Do Arborplugs create permanent damage or decay?
No. When properly installed, the flat surface of the Arborplug sits just below the bark layer. This allows new wood to grow over the site within one year of installation. Proper drilling technique and sanitation are key to preventing damage.
Do Arborplugs stay in the tree?
Yes. Arborplugs are designed to remain permanently in place. Within a year, new bark develops over the plug as the tree continues growing.
Which Arborjet products use Arborplugs?
Arborplugs are compatible with all Arborjet trunk injection equipment and injectable insecticides, fungicides, and nutrients. Always follow current product labels and application instructions.
How do I know an Arborplug is properly set?
A properly-set plug should sit below the bark layer. Users should be able to see the lighter-colored xylem tissue around the edges of the properly-set plug.
Can Arborplugs be reused?
No, Arborplugs cannot be reused and will remain in the tree permanently. The only instance where a plug can be reused is within one week of its installation.
