Christmas tree growers have been struggling with an invasive scale pest called Cryptomeria scale (Aspidiotus cryptomeriae), which is a serious pest of conifers. The scales infest the undersides of the needles and extract plant juices with their piercing-sucking mouthparts. Economic losses are due to the unsightly yellow discoloration and needle drop that occurs from the[Read More…]
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Landscape Report
insect
Aphids are some of the most common insect pests of herbaceous plants and broadleaf trees and shrubs. I have to admit, I do not always enjoy identifying aphids – but I find their shapes, colors, and biology fascinating. One species of aphid, which I first met myself this year, threatens plants in our landscapes on[Read More…]
Purple coneflower, Echinacea purpurea, is an old native standby that can thrive even in some difficult landscapes. With beautiful purple flowers and the ability to reseed and fill an area, it has been used widely, especially in gardens comprised primarily of native plants; however, they are not without their problems. We sometimes see some fungal[Read More…]
Recently, there has been an uptick in questions related to one of Indiana’s most notorious invasive pests: the emerald ash borer. Homeowners, businesses, even professionals have asked if ash trees are still present in Indiana, and if the insect is still a threat to our ecosystem. Emerald ash borer wreaked significant havoc among Indiana’s hardwoods,[Read More…]
The elm zigzag sawfly (EZS), Aproceros leucopoda, is a non-native insect recently detected in several midwestern states. Originally from eastern Asia, this insect is rarely considered a problem in its native range, having several natural enemies and environmental factors able to keep it in check. However, when in new landscapes, aspects of this insect’s life[Read More…]
Milkweed is a popular choice in urban landscapes as more citizens engage with monarch conservation efforts and strive to maintain pollinator-friendly landscapes. This past month I have seen numerous images of aphids found on milkweed plants from all over the state. Homeowners are concerned that the infestation will negatively affect the monarch butterflies that rely[Read More…]
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