Archives for June 2014

The announcement that the invasive pest Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) is present in NJ will lead to many discussions between professionals and concerned clients on what to do about their ash trees. EAB represents a broad threat – it attacks all true ash (Fraxinus) species. In the U.S., trees die within a few years without treatment. Research out of Ohio by Dan Herms points to the need for long term control efforts – possibly 15 to 20 years. Feasibility of treatment on an individual basis balances the cost of effective treatment vs the cost of removal of trees killed by EAB – which is not small.

Landscape Options for EAB

Confusion arises when discussing management of ash tree populations (forest or landscape) at risk due to EAB. Any discussion involving treatment does not apply to whole forests because methods and treatment costs make that impossible. Specific options available to landscaped areas include: elimination, preservation, and conservation.

June 2006 Urban Ash Trees Pre-EAB	August 2009 Urban Ash Trees Post-EAB
Photos by D. Herms, Ohio State University

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Black Vine Weevil Adults Are Noctural and Cause Feeding Damage at Night. Proto Credit: Steven K. Rettke of RCE

Many landscape & nursery managers consistently state that attempting to manage the black vine weevil insect (Otiorhynchus subcatus) as one of the most problematic pests they encounter. These leaf notching weevils feed on many kinds of ornamental plants including yews, rhododendrons, azaleas, laurels, leucothoe, forsythia, euonymus, hollies, viburnum, most deciduous and evergreen shrubs, ground covers and many kinds of perennials and annuals.

Controlling Black Vine Weevil adults during the month of June will prevent egg laying during the weeks of July. This beetle only has one generation a year.

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