As would be predicted, observations during the past few weeks within nurseries located in central & southern NJ have shown reduced activities of both the spruce spider mites & southern red spider mites. These common cool season mite pests feed predominately on conifers & broadleaf evergreens, respectfully. During the hot summer months, both of these spider mite species enter into a dormant stage. Alternatively, the two-spotted spider mite & several more host specific shade tree spider mites (e.g., maple spider mites, oak spider mites, honeylocust spider mites & European red mites) are common warm season mite species and are now rapidly laying eggs & building populations.

Spider Mite (0.5 mm), Egg & Pine Needle Stomates         Photo: Cornell University Press

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The common Bagworm Caterpillar (Thyridopteryx ephemeraeformis) has undergone egg hatch throughout much of the state during the past few weeks (GDD = 600-900).  The early instar stages during the month of June can easily be overlooked. For the first few weeks after hatch, the smaller Bagworms do not produce conspicuous feeding symptoms. However, for best control results these early instars should be targeted. Although the potential hosts of the Bagworm are large, they are generally of most concern on evergreen conifers.

Unhatched Bagworm Eggs in Female Sack
Photo by Steven K. Rettke of RCE

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Last week (6-8-13) the first emergence of the adult red-headed flea beetle (Systena frontalis) was observed in a Cumberland County nursery. This insect has been a major pest at numerous NJ nurseries during the past several years. Primarily a concern with container crops in nurseries, it has an extensive host range. The foliage damage to plants from this 0.2-0.25 inch adult beetle can become extreme.

Adult red-headed flea beetle & characteristic feeding symptoms on a leaf. (Photo Credit: Steven K. Rettke, Rutgers Coop. Ext.)

Red-headed flea beetle with prominent reddish head and shiny black thorax and abdomen (4.5-6.5 mm)

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