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.
June 13, 2013 Steven K. Rettke
Redheaded Flea Beetle Emerges in NJ Nursery
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.)