Landscape Message: May 27, 2016

May 27, 2016
Issue: 
10

UMass Extension's Landscape Message is an educational newsletter intended to inform and guide Green Industry professionals in the management of our collective landscape. Scouts compile and record environmental and phenological data for locations throughout Massachusetts to aid in the monitoring of plant and pest development, the planning of management strategies, and the creation of site-specific records for future reference.  Detailed reports from Extension specialists on growing conditions, pest activity, and cultural practices for the management of woody ornamentals, trees, and turf are regular features. UMass Extension has updated the following issue to provide timely management information and the latest regional news and environmental data.

The Landscape Message will be updated weekly April through June. The next message will be available on June 3. To receive immediate notification when the next Landscape Message update is posted, be sure to join our e-mail list.

NEW! To read individual sections of the message, click on the section headings below to expand the content:

Scouting Information by Region

Environmental Data

The following growing-degree-day (GDD) and precipitation data was collected for an approximately one week period, May 19 through May 25. Soil temperatures and phenological indicators were observed on or about May 25. Total accumulated growing degree days (GDD) represent the heating units above a 50° F baseline temperature collected via our instruments for the 2016 calendar year. This information is intended for use as a guide for monitoring the developmental stages of pests in your location and planning management strategies accordingly.

Region/Location

GDD

Soil Temp
(°F at 4" depth)

Precipitation
(1-Week Gain)

Time/Date of Readings

1-Week Gain

2016 Total

Sun

Shade

Cape Cod

41

197

71

57

0.23

4:30 PM 5/25

Southeast

53

217

71

64

0.25

5:15 PM 5/25

North Shore

57

191

57

53

0.11

10:00 AM 5/25

East

56.5

229.5

67

63

0.19

5:00 PM 5/25

Metro West

55.5

204.5

56

54

0.46

6:30 AM 5/25

Central

72

281

70

60

0.71

3:45 PM 5/25

Pioneer Valley

30

196

62

58

0.44

10:00 AM 5/25

Berkshires

64

186

62

58

0.17

9:15 AM 5/25

AVERAGE

54

213

65

58

0.32

-

n/a = information not available

Phenology

Phenological indicators are a visual tool for correlating plant development with pest development. The following are indicator plants and the stages of bloom observed for this period:

Indicator Plants - Stages of Flowering (BEGIN, BEGIN/FULL, FULL, FULL/END, END)
PLANT NAME (Botanic/ Common) CAPE S.E. N.S. EAST METRO W. CENT. P.V. BERK.
Kolkwitzia amabilis (Beautybush) * * * Begin * * * *
Weigela florida (Old Fashioned Weigela) * Begin * Begin * * * *
Deutzia spp. (Deutzia species) Begin Begin * * * Begin * *
Syringa meyeri (Meyer Lilac) Begin Begin/Full Begin Full Begin Begin Begin Begin
Rhododendron catawbiense (Catawba Rhododendron) Begin Begin * * Begin Begin Begin Begin
Spiraea x vanhouttei (Vanhoutte Spirea) Full Full Full Full Full Full Full Full
Aesculus hippocastanum (Common Horsechestnut) Full Full Full Full Full Full Full Full
Enkianthus campanulatus (Redvein Enkianthus) Begin/Full Full Full Full * Full Full Begin
Rhododendron carolinianum (Carolina Rhododendron) Full Full Full * Full * Full  
Elaeagnus umbellata (Autumn-olive) Full Full Full Full/End Full Full Full/End Begin
Syringa vulgaris (Common Lilac) Full Full Full/ End Full/End Full/ End Full Full/End Full
Rhododendron spp. (Early Azaleas) Full/End Full Full/ End Full Full Full Full/End Full
* = no activity to report/information not available

Regional Notes

Cape Cod Region (Barnstable)

General conditions: Lovely spring weather seemed to finally arrive on Cape Cod for this reporting period. Days were mostly sunny with temperatures in the mid to upper 60s and night temperatures generally stayed in the low 50s. There has been a lack of good rainfall and soils are somewhat dry. Drizzle on Sunday, May 22 and again on Tuesday May 24 only gave the Cape less than a quarter of an inch of rain. Fothergilla major and the Tea viburnum (Viburnum setigerum) are in full bloom. Common lilac (Syringa vulgaris) is starting to go by as Meyer’s lilac (S. meyeri) are beginning to bloom. Bearded Iris and Amsonia are beginning to bloom in the perennial garden. Lawns are growing rapidly. Pine pollen, mainly from Pitch pines, is coating cars and other structures with a yellow dust.

Pests/Problems: Winter moth caterpillars continue to feed on many deciduous trees, shrubs, and roses. They are mostly in the 3rd instar but the onset of warmer weather will speed up their development. Gypsy moth caterpillars are feeding up in the canopy of oaks. Large cut worms are hiding in soil during the day and feeding on stems of annuals and vegetables at night. Rose slug sawfly can be found feeding on the underside of rose foliage. Green leaf hoppers are also active on roses. Monitor Hemlocks for crawlers of the Elongate hemlock scale. Monitor willows for willow leaf beetle. Mosquitoes are quite active now! Deer tick nymphs are active. Continue to do thorough tick checks after working outdoors and consider using a permethrin spray labeled for clothing for protection. American holly (Ilex opaca) is shedding its older, inner leaves, which turn yellow and fall off. This is normal and usually coincides with the emergence of new growth. Holly leaf miner is still in the pupal stage in old mines but will be emerging as the adult fly soon.

Many Bigleaf hydrangea (Hydrangea macrophylla) suffered from the rapid temperature drop over the Valentine’s Day weekend and again with the low temperatures of 18° F, 22° F, and 24° F in early April. That killing freeze occurred after buds had begun to swell and even show some green. At this point, many, if not most Bigleaf hydrangea only have growth coming from the base of the plant. Prune out all deadwood and don’t expect a lot of flowers this year, unless it is one of the re-blooming cultivars. Pee Gee type hydrangeas are fine. The marginally hardy Crepe myrtle here on the Cape also took a hit with the late spring freeze and many have also been killed to the ground.

Native Flowering dogwood (Cornus florida) is showing spotting on bracts and foliage. This may possible be due to either Botrytis or Anthracnose.

Southeast Region (Hanson)

General Conditions: Warm weather finally arrived with temperatures in the mid 80’s on Wed. May 25th. The warm weather and lack of rain over the past few weeks is beginning to stress plants. Soils are powder-dry, and rain is needed, Hanson received only 0.25 inches of rain this past week and only 4.55 inches over the past 8 weeks. Remind clients to water newly planted plants and lawns. The following plants are in full bloom: Rutgers hybrid dogwoods (Stellar series), Aesculus hippocastanum (Common Horsechestnut), Halesia sp. (Silverbell), Magnolia fraseri, late blooming magnolia hybrids, Viburnum opulus, Viburnum plicatum var. tomentosum (doublefile viburnum), Cornus florida, Calycanthus floridus (Carolina allspice), Syringa sp., Loniceratatarica (invasive), Wisteria floribunda (Japanese Wisteria), Kerria, Daphne x burkwoodii 'Carol Mackie', Weigela florida, Aristolochia durior (Dutchman's pipe), Trillium, Convallaria majalis (Lily-of-the-valley), Euphorbia polychroma, Lamium sp., Primula sp., Brunnera macrophylla, Ajuga, Saruma henryi, Phlox subulata, Phlox divaricata, Phlox stolonifera, Myosotis sylvatica (Forget-me-not), Lunaria annua (honesty or money plant), Violets, Dicentra spectabilis (Bleeding heart), Tiarella cordifolia (Foam Flower), Vinca minor, Galium odoratum (Sweet Woodruff), Hyacinthoides hispanica, Arisaema sp., (Jack-in-the-pulpit), Polygonatum sp. (Solomon's Seal), Epimedium sp., Asarum canadense, Stylophorum diphyllum (Wood Poppy), Lamiastrum galeobdolon, bearded iris, early peonies, poppies, oxeye daisy, Buglossoides purpurocaerulea, Geranium sp., Corydalis lutea, Mazus reptans, Doronicum sp., Cypripedium parviflorum (Yellow Lady’s Slipper) and Persicaria bistorta ‘Superbum’. The flowering bracts of Kousa dogwood are beginning to open and show color. Ilex opaca, American holly, continues to shed its’ older yellow leaves. Three Massachusetts invasive plants barberry, autumn olive and burning bush, are in bloom. Now is a good time to remove and destroy the plants, and/or prune and shear them to remove flowers to prevent further seed production and dispersal.

Pests/Problems: Winter moth caterpillars remain active and while third instars may be found, many of the caterpillars are in 4th and mostly 5th instars (Growing Degrees Days 707, base 40). At this stage, the caterpillars produce large amount of frass (insect poop) and it sounds like rain as it drops to the ground covering whatever is beneath. In many areas, winter moth caterpillars have started to pupate and, according to staff at Dr. Joe Elkinton’s lab, winter moth season will probably be over by next week in areas in southeastern MA. Damage to plants is varied throughout; some crabapples, oaks, maples (Norway, sugar, red), etc. show significant damage, while others nearby show very little. Overall, so far, damage to trees, including the ‘test trees’ in Hanson, by winter moth caterpillars doesn’t appear to be as bad as in previous years. However, there are still late instar winter moth caterpillars feeding and they can do significant damage at this stage. Gypsy moth caterpillars are numerous and were found feeding alongside the late instar winter moth caterpillars in oak. Unless it rains heavily and Entomophaga maimaiga kicks in, we could see significant damage from gypsy moth caterpillars this year. Azalea sawfly is now active on deciduous azaleas like Exbury and Weston hybrid summer flowering azaleas. This small, bright glossy green caterpillar can be found feeding on the outer leaf margin and will devour the leaf, leaving only the midvein; manage early to avoid defoliation.(see Tawny Simisky’s Insect section of the Landscape message.) Euonymus caterpillar is active. Look for webbing at the tips of branches, as the caterpillars feed and web the leaf tips together. The webs are small now, but will grow in size as the caterpillars feed and develop. Roseslug sawfly remains active on roses. Continue to monitor rose foliage for the small, slug-like larvae, if left untreated, the sawfly larvae will skeletonize the rose foliage. Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) is not effective on sawflies. Continue to monitor spruce, hemlocks, arborvitae and firs for spruce spider mite. Monitor hemlocks for hemlock woolly adelgid. Also, monitor hemlocks and firs for elongate hemlock (Fiorina scale) and manage as needed. Eastern tent caterpillar webs, although not numerous, are large at this time and can easily be seen on Malus and Prunus species. Continue to monitor for boxwood psyllid, cottony Taxus scale (aka: cottony camellia scale)andEuropean pine sawfly.The following insects remain active: aphids, spittlebugs, woolly beech aphid on beech, azalea whitefly, slugs, snails, ants, wasps, hornets, mosquitoes,lily leaf beetle, carpenter bees, dog ticks and deer tick nymphs; remember, the deer tick nymph stage is often thought to be most responsible for transmitting Lyme disease. A fungal disease, Exobasidium vaccinii, (Azalea leaf gall) is showing up on azaleas. Look for small-medium size, glossy green galls and hand pick remove and destroy, before they turn white. Garlic mustard, ground ivy, buttercups and veronica continue in full bloom. Wild turkeys, chipmunks, squirrels and rabbits are active.

North Shore Region (Beverly)

General Conditions: The weather during this reporting period was variable with some nice sunny days and some cloudy days. We had scattered showers on some days with only about 0.11 inches of rain received during this period. Day temperatures ranged from the high 50s to the low 70s on some days. Night temperatures were mostly in the mid to high 40s during this period. We gained 57 growing degree days at Long Hill during this reporting period. Woody plants seen in bloom include: Horse Chestnut (Aesculus hippocastanum), Single seed hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna), Doublefile viburnum (Viburnum plicatum var. tomentosum), Chinese redbud (Cercis chinensis), Constellation Rutgers dogwood (Cornus x rutgersensis), Handkerchief tree (Davidia involucrata), Silver bell (Halesia carolina), Wright Viburnum (Viburnum wrightii), Unique azalea (Rhododendron ‘Unique’), Tree peony (Paeonia suffruticosa) Blue princess holly (Ilex x meserveae), Hardy orange (Poncirus trifoliata), Flowering Dogwood (Cornus florida), White Eastern Redbud (Cercis canadensis “alba”), Umbrella tree (Magnolia tripetala), Redvein enkianthus (Enkianthus campanulatus), Vanhoutte spirea (Spirea vanhouttei), Royal azalea (Rhododendron schlippenbachii), Little leaf lilac (Syringa microphylla), Common Lilac (Syringa vulgaris), Leatherleaf viburnum (viburnum rhytidophyllum), Carolina Rhododendron (Rhododendron carolinianum) and some other azaleas such as Polar bear azalea. Non-woody plants seen in bloom include: Fetterbush (Leucothoe fontanesiana), Father Hugo rose (Rosa hugonis), Peony (Paeonia sp.), Cranesbill (Geranium sp.), Bleeding heart (Dicentra spectabilis).

Pests/Problems: Winter moth caterpillars continue to cause damage on maples. Cedar quince rust (Gymnosporangium clavipes) was observed on twigs of some younger cedar trees. Young galls of azalea leaf and flower gall (Exobasidium vaccinii) were observed some azaleas. Twig galls (caused by gall wasp) were observed on Pin oaks (Quercus palustris). Also observed were viburnum leaf beetles skeletonizing viburnum leaves. Mosquitoes are very active. Protect yourself with a repellent when working outdoors. Ticks are also very active.

East Region (Boston)

General Conditions: We have gained 56.5 GDDs bringing us up to 229.5 on the year. Conditions over the last week have varied from sunny and warm to cool and overcast. Low temperatures have been steady, ranging from 46° F to 52° F, averaging 49° F while highs have ranged from 60° F to 75° F, averaging 67° F. We received rain on two occasions over the last week: the evening of the 19th and the early morning of the 24th saw a combined 0.19 inches of precipitation. Conditions are dry: over the first 8 days of the month, we received 1.55 inches of rain, compared to only 0.35 inches received over the last 16 days. Plants in bloom include: Aesculus hippocastanum (European horsechestnut), Calycanthus floridus (Carolina allspice), Chionanthus virginicus (white fringetree), Convallaria majalis (lily of the valley), Cornus sericea (red osier dogwood), Crataegus sp.(hawthorn), Halesia tetraptera (mountain silverbell), Kerria japonica (Japanese kerria), Lonicera sempirvirens (trumpet honeysuckle), Paeonia suffruticosa (peony), Polygonatum biflorum (smooth solomon's seal), Prunus laurocerasus (cherry laurel), Prunus serotina (black cherry), Rhododendron calendulaceum (flame azalea), Rhododendron viscosum (swamp azalea), Spirea thunbergii (baby's breath spirea), Symplocos paniculata (Asiatic sweetleaf), Vaccinium angustifolium (lowbush blueberry), Vaccinium corymbosum (highbush blueberry), and Viburnum plicatum var. tomentosum (doublefile Viburnum).

Pests/Problems: Soils are dry and are especially noticeable within the top 2 inches. Supplemental irrigation for spring planted trees, shrubs and herbaceous material is needed. Poison ivy (Toxicodendron radicans) is leafing out and can easily be spotted; stinging nettle (Urtica dioica) and yellow flag iris (Iris pseudacorus) are in flower. Many weeds are in seed, particularly noticeable are dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) and garlic mustard (Alliaria petiolata). The boxwood psyllid (Psylla buxi) is piercing and sucking young boxwood tip growth and these leaves are starting to exhibit the characteristic cupping shape. Warmer temperatures have activated boxwood leafminer (Monarthropalpus flavus) larvae; they are actively feeding inside the leaf. Aphids are abundant on the buds of many rose cultivars, causing damage to the unopened flowers. Winter moth (Operophtera brumata) continue to balloon and feed – almost all can be found in their final instar stage at this time of the season. Viburnum leaf beetle (Pyrrhalta viburni) larvae have decimated untreated arrowwood viburnum (Viburnum dentatum) leaving behind brown and crispy skeletonized leaves; some plants have already been entirely devoured. Lily leaf beetle (Lilioceris lilii) adults are active and have mated; the bright red-orange eggs have been laid on the underside of true lily species, but have yet to hatch. Imported willow leaf beetle (Plagiodera versicolora) larvae have hatched and are actively feeding on the underside of willow leaves. The green colored larvae of azalea sawfly, almost identical in color to that of azalea foliage, have hatched and are actively feeding on a variety of azaleas. Scouting and treatment is advised to avoid complete defoliation by these larvae. Mosquitos and ticks are very active.

Metro West (Acton)

General Conditions: The average monthly precipitation total for May is 4.04" and recorded for the month so far has been a mere 1.90”. Woody plants seen in bloom this past week are Aesculus hippocastanum (Horsechestnut), Amelanchier spp. (Shadbush, Serviceberry), Aronia arbutifolia (Black Chokecherry), Cercis canadensis (Redbud), Cornus florida (Dogwood), C. x rutgersensis 'Ruth Ellen' (Rutgers Hybrid Dogwood), Cornus sericea (Redosier Dogwood), Fothergilla gardenii (Dwarf Fothergilla), F. major (Large Fothergilla), Halesia tetraptera (Mountain Silverbell), Ilex aquifolium (English Holly), Kerria japonica (Japanese Kerria), Leucothoe axillaris (Coast Leucothoe), Magnolia ‘Elizabeth’, M. x loebneri 'Merrill', Potentilla tridentata (Cinquefoil), Prunus japonica (Flowering Almond), P. serotina (Black Cherry), Rhododendron spp., Spirea thunbergii (Thunberg Spirea), Syringa spp. ( Lilac), Vaccinium angustifolium (Lowbush Blueberry), V. corymbosum (Highbush Blueberry) and Viburnum plicatum var. tomentosum (Doublefile Viburnum). Woody vines in bloom are: Clematis spp. and Lonicera sempirvirens (Trumpet Honeysuckle). Contributing even more color and interest to the landscape are some flowering herbaceous plants and spring ephemerals including: Actaea pachypoda (White Baneberry), Ajuga reptans (Bugleweed), Allium spp. (Ornamental Flowering Onion), A. schoenoprasum (chives), Amsonia hubrichtii (Arkansas Blue Star), Aquilegia canadensis (Columbine), A. vulgaris (Columbine), Arisaema triphyllum (Jack-in-the-Pulpit), Asarum europaeum (European Ginger), A. canadense (Canadian Wild Ginger), Aurinia saxatilis (Basket of Gold), Camassia scilloides ‘Blue Danube’ (Wild Hyacinth), Chrysogonum virginianum (Green and Gold), Convallaria majalis (Lily of the Valley), Dicentra eximia (Fringed Bleeding Heart), D. spectabilis (Old Fashioned Bleeding Heart), Dictamnus albus (Gas Plant), Fragaria sp. (Strawberry), Gallium odorata (Sweet Woodruff), Geranium maculatum (Wild Geranium), G. sanguineum (Bloody Cranesbill), Hyacinthoides hispanica (Wood Hyacinth), Iris germanica (Bearded Iris), Lunaria annua (Money Plant), Myosotis sylvatica (Forget-me-not), Nepeta spp. (Ornamental Catmint), Papaver orientale (Poppy), Phlox divaricata (Canadian Phlox), P. stolonifera (Creeping Phlox), P. x subulata (Moss Phlox), Podophyllum peltatum (Mayapple), Polemonium reptans (Jacob’s Ladder), Polygonatum commutatum (Great Solomon's Seal), P. odoratum 'Variegatum' (Variegated Solomon's Seal), Primula spp. (Primrose), Stylophorum diphyllum (Wood Poppy), Tiarella cordifolia (Foam Flower), Veronica repens (Speedwell),Vinca minor (Periwinkle), Viola spp. (Violet), and Zizia aptera (Heart-Leaved Alexander).

Pests/Problems: Winter moth caterpillars are actively feeding on the foliage of Acer (Maple), Amelanchier (Shadbush, Serviceberry), Corylus (Filbert), Fagus (Beech), Malus (Crabapple), and Prunus (Cherry) and are easy to detect this week with the naked eye. Imported Willow Leaf Beetles are feeding on willow foliage; wooly adelgid is feeding on beech trees and can be found on the underside of the foliage; and Snowball Aphid is evident on Viburnums. Needle drop is occurring on the white pines that have browned out due to winter road treatment. Ticks, mosquitoes and black flies are feeding and active. Many weeds are in flower including a few of the nastiest invasives of all time, Alliaria petiolata (Garlic Mustard) which is easily seen with its white flowers growing on roadsides and in woodlands, wetlands and gardens, Elaeagnus umbellata (Autumn-olive), and Lonicera maackii (Amur Honeysuckle). Other weeds seen in bloom now are Glechoma hederacea (Ground Ivy), Lamium purpureum (Purple Dead Nettle) and Taraxacum officinale (Dandelion). Be aware of Toxicodendron radicans (Poison Ivy). It is leafing out and it is fairly easy to detect its shiny red leaves of three.

Central Region (Boylston)

General Conditions: Among the many things in bloom right now are Common Lilac (Syringa vulgaris), Cutleaf Lilac (S. laciniata), Aronia sp., Doublefile Viburnum (V. plicatum f. tomentosum), Bleeding Heart (Dicentra spectabilis), Fumewort (Corydalis lutea), Japanese Jack-in-the-Pulpit (Arisaema sikokianum), Woodland Phlox (P. divaricata and P. stolonifera), Camassia cusickii, Periwinkle (Vinca minor), Lily-of-the-Valley (Convallaria majalis), Columbine (Aquilegia vulgaris), Pulmonaria cevennensis subsp. cevennensis, Epimediums, Aesculus carnea ‘Briotii’, Aesculus pavia, Rhus aromatica ‘Gro-Low’, Blueberries (Vaccinium corymbosum and V. angustifolia).

Pests/Problems: Soils are quite dry in spite of the showers which occurred during the reporting period. New transplants require supplemental watering. Turf is growing rapidly as are weeds like Garlic Mustard (Alliaria petiolata), Dandelions (Taraxacum officinale), and Gill-over-the-Ground (Glechoma hederacea). Willow beetle and Gypsy Moth caterpillars have been spotted this week.

Pioneer Valley Region (Amherst)

General Conditions: Pleasant spring weather was abundant in the Pioneer Valley over this past reporting period. We had a mixture of sun and clouds, high temperatures in upper 60s to upper 70s, and mild nights in the upper 40s to low 50s. While May began with below-average temperatures and persistent cloud cover, it’s ending with ample sun and unseasonably hot conditions. The five-day forecast is predicting temperatures in the upper 80s to low 90s from 5/25 to 5/29. We continue to receive scattered rain showers but not enough to make up for the year-to-date deficit that only continues to widen with each passing month. Patchy, scattered rain on the afternoon of Sunday 5/22 resulted in less than 0.1″ of accumulation. Steady, more widely distributed showers during the morning of Tuesday 5/24 resulted in accumulations up to 0.5″ in Hampden County while Franklin County received roughly half that total. Dense morning fog has blanketed the river bottoms the past few days, a sure sign of summer in the Pioneer Valley. Winds have also been mostly light to calm, a welcome transition from the strong winds earlier this month. The landscape is vibrant green right now and many flowering annuals, perennials, trees and shrubs are in full bloom. Soils remain fairly moist but the uppermost surface and mulch beds can be quite dry. Continue to provide supplemental water to newly transplanted trees and shrubs. Turf grasses are still bright green and growing quickly, as are crabgrass, yellow nutsedge, cinquefoil and other lawn weeds.

Pests/Problems: Armillaria is active and producing new rhizomorphs in soil and on colonized roots. On trees with open cavities with evidence of wood-decay at the soil line, excavate the surrounding soil to determine if Armillaria is present. Rhizomorphs are dark red in color when young becoming dark black when mature and can be highly branched. Hard pine needles are approximately ¼ elongated and are susceptible to infection by Diplodia. On low-growing hard pines with overlapping canopies, e.g. Mugo pine, prune out any dead shoots that could be harboring this fungal pathogen. Dead shoot tips with diseased needles were observed in the lower canopy of Austrian pines on the UMass campus. In addition to pruning, a systemic or locally systemic fungicide may be required for effective treatment on larger trees but must be rotated to avoid resistance development. Arborvitae (Thuja) needles are elongating now and may be susceptible to infection by Phyllosticta thujae, the cause of arborvitae needle blight. This disease has been widespread on Thuja and Chamaecyparis in recent years, especially on trees with predisposing stresses like drought, winter injury and excessive pruning. Prune brown shoots and needles to reduce inoculum in the canopy. Elongate hemlock scale crawlers are active and were observed feeding on needles of balsam fir (Abies balsamea) on the UMass campus. In addition to eastern hemlock, this non-native pest can ravage true fir and has become a serious threat to the health of landscape Abies in recent years. Spruce spider mites continue to actively feed on arborvitae, spruce, true cedar, fir and hemlock. The warm temperatures ahead should suppress populations, however, since spruce spider mite is typically not active at high temperatures like many other spider mites. Gymnosporangium rusts are still producing orange-colored spore masses on Juniperus. The rainfall on 5/24 may have resulted in the development of anthracnose fungi. Scout for angular leaf spots and blotches on lower canopy foliage that is fully shaded. Continue to scout for and prune out winter damage, which is abundant on evergreen shrubs like yew, rhododendron, azalea, mountain laurel, andromeda, holly, among others. Mosquitoes are now abundant and sources of stagnant water should be scouted for and eliminated to reduce egg laying sites.

Berkshire Region (Great Barrington)

General Conditions: The mildest weather of spring arrived during the past week but the anticipated rain left much more to be desired with just a light rain during the day on May 24. Rainfall deficit for the year is now almost 4 inches. Warm temperatures, breezes, and lack of rain are resulting in low soil moisture levels. Yet, turfgrass is growing well on most locations. Leaf development has accelerated with the warmer temperatures though oaks, ashes, and locusts foliage is still quite small. Many of the so-called early azaleas are just now reaching “full” bloom but on most the flowers are few. There have been many woody plants which failed to bloom, notably early flowering magnolias, PJM rhododendrons, and many with sparse bloom, e.g. Forsythia. Examination of weigela at the monitoring sites revealed no flower buds and considerable twig dieback. The next few days appear to be much warmer than normal. This may accelerate the appearance of winter related damage to foliage and young shoots of woody plants.

Pests/Problems: Corresponding with the improved weather was an increase in numbers of pests and pest species observed at monitoring sites. Boxwood psylla nymphs are feeding on the terminal leaves of boxwood. Affected leaves are cup shaped. The nymphs are covered with waxy fibers. Boxwood leaf miner was found in larval, pupal, and adult stages. The adult females will soon be mating and laying eggs in the undersides of boxwood leaves. Willow leaf beetle eggs were found on the undersides of willow leaves but no larvae were yet observed. Despite there being many crabapples, apples, and black cherry trees at the four monitoring sites, no signs of Eastern tent caterpillar have been seen this spring. However, the first sighting of gypsy moth caterpillar occurred this week. Viburnum leaf beetle larvae are feeding on foliage of viburnums. Powdery mildew was found on ninebark (Physocarpus opulifolius ‘Coppertina’) growing in a mostly shady site. Nearby specimens in full sun to part shade had no powdery mildew. Wooly beech aphid and spruce spider mite remain active as do deer ticks, wasps, yellow jackets, carpenter bees, and eye gnats. The most common complaint from home gardeners has been the abundance of rodents this spring. Chipmunks have been particularly troublesome and have been observed digging up and eating early spring flowering bulbs. Gnawing of bark by voles and rabbits has resulted in death of some shrubs.

Regional Scouting Credits

  • CAPE COD REGION - Roberta Clark, UMass Extension Horticulturist for Barnstable County - Retired, reporting from Barnstable.
  • SOUTHEAST REGION - Deborah Swanson, UMass Extension Horticulturist for Plymouth County - Retired, reporting from Hanson.
  • NORTH SHORE REGION - Geoffrey Njue, Green Industry Specialist, UMass Extension, reporting from the Long Hill Reservation, Beverly.
  • EAST REGION - Kit Ganshaw & Sue Pfeiffer, Horticulturists, reporting from the Arnold Arboretum, Jamaica Plain.
  • METRO WEST REGION – Julie Coop, Forester, Massachusetts Department of Conservation & Recreation, reporting from Acton.
  • CENTRAL REGION  -  Joann Vieira, Superintendent of Horticulture, reporting from the Tower Hill Botanic Garden, Boylston.
  • PIONEER VALLEY REGION - Nick Brazee, Plant Pathologist, UMass Extension Plant Diagnostic Lab, reporting from UMass Amherst.
  • BERKSHIRE REGION - Ron Kujawski, Horticultural Consultant, reporting from Great Barrington.

Woody Ornamentals

Diseases

Recent pathogens of interest seen in the UMass Extension Plant Diagnostic Lab:

Shoot tip blight of Japanese snowbell (Styrax japonicus) caused by the anthracnose pathogen Colletotrichum. Tree is 15-years-old and has been present at the site for 10 years. In previous years, the tree has exhibited dieback and this spring the canopy did not fully leaf out. Soils are droughty at the site and the tree receives half-sun. Drought stress may be a predisposing factor that facilitated the fungal infection and shoot blight.

Arborvitae needle blight, caused by Phyllosticta thujae, on northern whitecedar (Thuja occidentalis) and Atlantic whitecedar (Chamaecyparis thyoides). Trees reside at two different properties and developed significant needle browning this spring. The damage was not visible in previous years and approximately 75% of the foliage on the Atlantic whitecedar is now dead. At both sites the trees are mature (>20-years-old) and have been present for many years. Winter injury is a likely contributor to the decline.

Insect defoliation and leaf blight caused by Colletotrichum of Norway maple (Acer platanoides). Tree is 50-years-old and did not leaf out evenly this spring with several dead shoots and branches in the canopy. In previous years the canopy appeared relatively healthy. Winter moth damage was visible along with dark-colored, angular leaf blotches that were the result of anthracnose.

Marginal leaf blotch of rhododendron caused by winter injury, Phyllosticta and Colletotrichum. One plant in a group of rhododendrons that are approximately 25-years-old became symptomatic during the winter. Leaves became brown and curled with marginal necrosis developing. Winter burn followed by colonization from opportunistic foliar pathogens is very common evergreen shrubs like rhododendron.

Shoot and leaf dieback of boxwood (Buxus sp.) caused by Volutella buxi. Several plants in a hedge, approximately 10 to 15-years-old, that were relatively healthy in previous years. In August of last year, the plants were aggressively sheared and the site is windy and has full sun exposure but the plants are provided with drip irrigation. The late season pruning likely resulted in winter injury that allowed an existing Volutella population to explode throughout the canopy.           

For more detailed management information for woody plant diseases in the landscape, refer to UMass Extension's Professional Management Guide for Diseases of Trees and Shrubs.

Report by Nick Brazee, Plant Pathologist, UMass Extension Plant Diagnostic Lab, UMass Amherst.

Insects

Woody ornamental insect and non-insect arthropod pests to consider, a selected few:

  • Eastern Tent Caterpillar: Eastern tent caterpillar eggs have hatched and larvae are active at this time. Young caterpillars are found in tents in the crotches of branches, which are quickly growing larger. Remove small tents by pruning (when possible, without removing too much foliage) or destroy with a gloved hand. Do not set the tents on fire, as this can do more damage to the plant and surrounding area than the caterpillars ever could. Pupation will begin in June and last for few weeks. Forest Tent Caterpillar eggs have hatched and small caterpillars are seen. These caterpillars do not make tents likes those of the eastern tent caterpillar, but rather web foliage together. Caterpillars are hairy, with blue lines and white, key-hole shaped spots down the center of their dorsal side, distinguishing them from eastern tent caterpillars where a white line is present dorsally. Bacillus thuringiensis Kurstaki is effective on young caterpillars.
  • Fall/Spring Cankerworm: These two species of geometrid moth caterpillars have hatched. Both species may be found feeding together on hosts such as oak, cherry, elm, apple, and maple. Initial feeding may cause foliage to become tattered in appearance. Caterpillars will be present until approximately the end of June. Fall cankerworm caterpillars look quite similar to winter moth caterpillars, however winter moth has 2 pairs of prolegs whereas fall cankerworm has 2 full pairs of prolegs and a 3rd, half-sized pair. Spring cankerworm has 2 pairs of prolegs but may have darker caterpillars than winter moth (otherwise, they can be very difficult to differentiate in the field). Young cankerworm larvae can be managed with horticultural oils applied to the trunk and branches of hosts when deemed necessary.
  • Gypsy Moth: Caterpillars are actively feeding and dispersing. In areas of the state where multitudes of egg masses have been seen, such as towns around the Quabbin Reservoir and points further east, Bacillus thuringiensis Kurstaki can be used on small caterpillars. At this time, as caterpillars are dispersing, some individuals may experience skin rashes or dermatitis (particularly on exposed areas like the arms, neck, and legs) from the urticating hairs from these caterpillars. Children may be more sensitive to this problem than adults, although sensitivities may vary between individuals. Anti-itch creams may help provide some relief, but concerned individuals experiencing a rash due to gypsy moth should contact their physician or a dermatologist as necessary. Reports of these insect-related rashes have been made in areas like, but are not limited to: Carver, Hanson, Raynham, and Plymouth and surrounding areas.
  • Winter moth caterpillar on willow in Boston, MA. Photo by T. Simisky. Winter Moth: (Continued monitoring) Operophtera brumata caterpillars are being found in host plants such as maple, apple, willow, blueberry, and others in varying stages of development. Wellesley and Seekonk are seeing 4th and 5th instars. The North Shore is seeing late 3rd instar and early 4th instar caterpillars, according to reports from the Elkinton Lab. The Cape is seeing mostly 4th instar caterpillars. In inland areas with winter moth, the Elkinton Lab reports that pupation has begun. They expect pupation to begin on the Cape by this weekend and on the North Shore sometime next week. Continue to monitor susceptible hosts for the presence of caterpillars, feeding on foliage making it look like Swiss cheese, frass, and silken webbing holding leaves together. For green industry professionals looking to manage winter moth in the landscape, products containing active ingredients such as spinosad and pyrethroids are available. Apples, crabapples, and other flowering plants should not be sprayed with these products while in bloom to avoid unintended impacts to pollinators. Once all caterpillars are pupating, the window to make chemical treatments for this insect will be closed as pupation occurs while protected in the soil.
  • Andromeda Lacebug: Stephanitis takeyaiwill be active soon on Japanese Andromeda in areas above 250 GDD’s and as we approach the beginning of June. Overwintering eggs buried in the underside of leaves will hatch and nymphs will begin to feed. Inspect plants known to have S. takeyai in the past (or exhibiting yellow stippling on the upper leaf surface) and inspect undersides of leaves for this season’s lacebugs. Before populations become too large, treat with a summer rate horticultural oil spray as needed.
  • Azalea sawfly caterpillars in Hanson, MA. Photo by D. Swanson. Azalea Sawfly: Amauronematus azalae is active on deciduous azaleas. Continue to monitor for the feeding damage of this caterpillar. Tiny sawfly caterpillars have been seen in areas like Boston and Hanson, feeding on the edges of foliage. This insect can completely defoliate the plant if present in large numbers. Spinosad based products are effective on this hymenopteran pest, while Bacillus thuringiensis Kurstaki is not.
  • Birch Leafminer: Fenusa pusilla is active at this time. The adult female sawfly wasps are small and dark and can be observed visually on host plant foliage. Eggs are laid within leaves. The use of yellow-sticky cards (1 per tree) works extremely well for monitoring for this pest. Once the adult sawflies have emerged, the tree can then be treated with a chemical insecticide, such as a pyrethroid, to prevent egg-laying within the foliage. Bacillus thuringiensis Kurstaki is not effective against sawflies.
  • Black Vine Weevil: Otiorhynchus sulcatus damage is apparent on rhododendron and taxus, but can also be seen on azalea, mountain laurel, and Euonymus. Adult weevils feed along the leaf/needle margins and create rounded notches. Inspect foliage of these plants for notching from last season’s feeding. Larvae, which dwell in the soil, are conducting their heaviest feeding on plant roots at this time. Pupation will occur by the end of this month. Adults will emerge in June and create new damage to leaves for this season. All individuals are females and reproduce asexually. This insect has developed resistance to many chemical insecticides. Entomopathogenic nematodes such as Steinernema carpocapsae, S. feltiae, and Heterorhabditis bacterio-phora work well against this insect, particularly on containerized plants. Results in the landscape vary. Wetting the soil thoroughly prior to application and keeping it wet for at least 5 days following application can help increase the efficacy of the nematodes. Burlap laid around the base of plants during the time adults are active, by the end of May through August, can be inspected weekly for adult weevils which can be killed before egg laying.
  • Boxwood Psyllid: Psylla buxi will be feeding on newly emerged boxwood foliage with its piercing-sucking mouthparts. This feeding may not cause yellowing or loss of foliage, but will lead to the cupping of new leaves which can be an aesthetic issue for some. If population numbers are low, management of this pest may not be necessary.
  • Clover Mite: Bryobia praetiosa may be found on the underside of honeysuckle and elm foliage. May cause bronzed or silvery appearance to foliage. When management is deemed necessary, insecticidal soap or neem oil may be used particularly in mid-late May when mites are most active. Observe product labels and avoid phytotoxicity.
  • Elongate Hemlock Scale: Fiorinia externa is found on eastern, Carolina, and Japanese hemlock, as well as yew, spruce, and fir. Crawlers will be present this month and throughout the growing season and the overlap of many developmental stages at any given time can be observed.
  • Emerald Ash Borer: Agrilus planipennis has been detected in a new county in Massachusetts. Officials from the MA Department of Conservation and Recreation and the United States Department of Agriculture have confirmed a find in Hampden County in the town of Wilbraham. This invasive insect readily attacks ash (Fraxinus spp.) including white, green, and black ash and has also been found developing in white fringe tree (Chionanthus virginicus). For a map of the known locations of emerald ash borer in the state, as well as further information about this insect, please visit: https://ag.umass.edu/fact-sheets/emerald-ash-borer .
  • Euonymus caterpillars in Hanson, MA. Photo by D. Swanson. Euonymus Caterpillar: Yponomeuta cagnagella is currently active. These small yellow caterpillars with black spots feed throughout the host plant and are capable of creating vast amounts of unsightly silk while feeding on the leaves. By early summer, entire viburnum can be covered with silk and leafless. Inspect for the presence of this pest and treat with a product that contains Spinosad if deemed necessary. Handpick and destroy if caterpillars are small in number.
  • European Pine Sawfly: Neodiprion sertifer caterpillar is active. The primary host in MA is Mugo pine but it can be found on Scots, red, jack, and Japanese red pine, but is also found on white, Austrian, ponderosa, shortleaf, and pitch pine when near the aforementioned species. This dark colored caterpillar feeds in tight groups and small numbers can be pruned away and destroyed. Larger numbers can be treated with an insecticidal soap spray when the caterpillars are still small. Spinosad products can be used whenever the caterpillars are actively feeding, usually by mid-May and when caterpillars are still small. Bacillus thuringiensis Kurstaki is not effective against sawflies.
  • Hemlock Looper: Two species of geometrid moths in the genus Lambdina are native insects capable of defoliating eastern hemlock, balsam fir, and white spruce. Adult moths lay their eggs on the trunk and limbs of hosts in September and October, and eggs will hatch by late May or early June. Monitor susceptible hosts for small, inch-worm like caterpillars. Where populations are low, no management is necessary.
  • Hemlock Woolly Adelgid: Adelges tsugae is present on eastern and Carolina hemlock. Infested trees may be treated with a summer rate horticultural oil spray as weather conditions allow. Be cautious when pruning or removing infested hemlocks as to avoid accidentally transporting eggs and nymphs that are present at this time.
  • Honeylocust Plantbug: Diaphnocoris chlorionis is presently feeding on the foliage of honeylocust with its piercing-sucking mouth. If this pest is present in large numbers, damage caused by feeding may warrant management. Monitor for numbers of this pest by gently shaking branches over a white piece of paper. Examine carefully with a hand lens for the tiny pale green nymphs and pale green (winged) adults. Young nymphs can be treated with a spray of insecticidal soap.
  • Imported Willow Leaf Beetle: Plagiodera versicolora overwintered adults are present and active at this time and will chew holes and notches in the leaves of willow. Egg laying will continue through the end of this month. Females lay yellow eggs in clusters on the undersides of leaves. Larvae are slug-like and bluish-green in color. They will feed in clusters and skeletonize the leaves. Most plants can tolerate the feeding from this insect, and foliage will appear brown. Repeated yearly feeding can be an issue, in which case management of the young larvae may be necessary. Take care with treatment in areas near water.
  • Lily Leaf Beetle: Continue to monitor for Lilioceris lilii. Management can be achieved by hand-picking and removing adults and larvae. Bright red adults are now seen mating on host plants and females are laying their reddish-orange eggs in lines on the undersides of leaves. Some chemical management options are available for this insect, but if caught early mechanical management may be effective. Pyrethroids can be used against adult beetles, whereas spinosad products are most effective against the larvae.
  • Nantucket Pine Tip Moth: Rhyacionia frustrana larvae feed in the buds, shoots, and base of needles of pitch, Scotch, mugo, and black pines in Massachusetts. The insect overwinters as a pupa in the damaged shoots. Adults will emerge in areas over 121 GDD’s, base 50°F. Many parasites, predatory insects, and birds will attack this pest. If chemical management options are deemed necessary, target the young larvae of this insect, which can be found hatching from eggs laid by this spring’s adults 5-10 days after peak adult emergence.
  • Roseslugs: Two species of sawfly can be found on the leaves of roses at this time. These small, caterpillar-like larvae will skeletonize the upper leaf surface and leave a “window-pane” like pattern behind. When present in large numbers, these insects are capable of defoliating their entire host. Management options include an insecticidal soap spray or a product containing spinosad.
  • Snowball Aphid: Neoceruraphis viburnicola is reaching the end of its activity on viburnum in warmer areas. This insect is particularly noticeable on V. opulus, V. prunifolium, and V. acerifolia. At this time, nymphs and alates (or winged dispersing adults) may be found in distorted foliage with or without stem mothers that are near done for the season. This pest is mostly aesthetically damaging; however, if chemical management options are deemed necessary, foliar applications of products containing active ingredients such as permethrin can be made as leaves are expanding. Once the aphids are concealed in the curled up foliage, reaching them with an insecticide can be increasingly difficult and efficacy is reduced. The window for managing this insect is nearly complete.
  • Viburnum Leaf Beetle: Pyrrhalta virburni: Inspect newly emerging foliage for spotting caused by the feeding of tiny, pale-yellow and green colored larvae skeletonizing the leaves. Larvae may be treated with a product containing spinosad if found. Larvae are actively feeding in the Boston area. This pest has the potential of completely defoliating the host within 4-5 weeks of larval feeding. Planting species of viburnum that are most resistant to the viburnum leaf beetle can help solve this issue. Resistant varieties include V. bodnantense (dawn viburnum), V. carlesii (Koreanspice viburnum), V. davidii (David viburnum), V. sieboldii (Siebold viburnum), and others. Highly susceptible species of viburnum frequently attached by this beetle include V. dentatum (arrowwood viburnums), V. opulus (European cranberrybush viburnum), and V. rafinesquianum (Rafinesque viburnum).
  • White Spotted Pine Sawyer (WSPS): Monochamus scutellatus are pupating and adults have begun to emerge and will do so throughout July, depending on local temperatures. This is a native insect in Massachusetts and is usually not a pest. Larvae develop in weakened or recently dead conifers, particularly eastern white pine (Pinus strobus). However, the white spotted pine sawyer looks very similar to the invasive Asian Longhorned Beetle, Anoplophora glabripennis, ALB. ALB adults do not emerge in Massachusetts until July and August. Beginning in July, look for the key difference between WSPS and ALB adults which is a white spot in the top center of the wing covers (the scutellum) on the back of the beetle. White spotted pine sawyer will have this white spot, whereas Asian longhorned beetle will not. Both insects can have other white spots on the rest of their wing covers, however the difference in the color of the scutellum is a key characteristic. The regulated area for Asian longhorned beetle is 110 miles2 encompassing Worcester, Shrewsbury, Boylston, West Boylston, and parts of Holden and Auburn. If you believe you have captured an Asian longhorned beetle (particularly beginning in July and August) or have seen damage caused by this insect, such as exit holes, on susceptible host trees like maple, please call the Asian Longhorned Beetle Eradication Program office in Worcester, MA at 508-852-8090 or toll free at 1-866-702-9938. To report an Asian longhorned beetle find online or compare it to common insect look-alikes, visit: http://massnrc.org/pests/albreport.aspx or https://www.aphis.usda.gov/pests-diseases/alb/report .

Concerned that you may have found an invasive insect or suspicious damage caused by one? Need to report a pest sighting? If so, please visit the Massachusetts Introduced Pests Outreach Project: http://massnrc.org/pests/pestreports.htm.

A note about Deer Tick Awareness: deer ticks (Ixodes scapularis), the American dog tick (Dermacentor variabilis), and the lone star tick (Amblyomma americanum) are all found throughout Massachusetts. Each can carry their own complement of diseases. Adults and nymphs can be active when temperatures are above freezing and anyone working in tick habitats (wood-line areas, forested areas, and landscaped areas with ground cover) should check themselves regularly for ticks while practicing preventative measures. Have a tick and need it tested? Visit the web page of the Laboratory of Medical Zoology (www.tickdiseases.org) and click on the red 'Test a Tick' button for more information.

Report by Tawny Simisky, Extension Entomologist, UMass Extension Landscape, Nursery, & Urban Forestry Program

Management Practices

Plant of the Week: Enkianthus campanulatus

Enkianthus campanulatus is an upright shrub growing 12-15’ tall (sometimes larger) and is best situated in a well-drained acidic soil in part shade (can grow in full sun). It prefers a rich organic soil with a pH below 6. Redvein enkianthus gets its common name from the creamy yellow bell shaped flowers which have red veins. The pendulous flower racemes open in May to June. The flowers are on the previous year’s growth, so pruning should be done soon after flowering. Leaves are 1-3” long, emerge bright green turning to a darker, duller green in the summer. Fall color can be variable, but can be bright red with orange, yellow, and purple. Enkianthus campanulatus does not have any serious insect or disease problems. Plants can be grown as specimens or grouped in the landscape, but are best planted with other ericaceous plants such as Rhododendron.

Enkianthus campanulatus    Enkianthus campanulatus

Landscape Turf

There have been a lot of inquiries recently about proper timing for the application of preventive grub control products.  For the full scoop, refer to our Current Insecticide Approaches for White Grub Control fact sheet: https://ag.umass.edu/fact-sheets/current-insecticide-approaches-for-white-grub-control

For guidelines on minimizing the impact of neonicotinoid insecticides used for white grub control on pollinators, please see our Neonicotinoid Turf Insecticides and Pollinators fact sheet: https://ag.umass.edu/fact-sheets/neonicotinoid-turf-insecticides-pollinators

Report by Jason Lanier, Extension Educator, UMass Extension Agriculture and Landscape Program

Garden Retailers

  • Light and temperature extremes this time of year can stress plants in retail greenhouses and yards. Tender new growth and plants under water stress are particularly prone.

    Faded, dull upper surfaces of most recently expanded leaves are often the beginning signs of sunscald. Sunscald -paper thin brown spots can occur on tender new growth and when cloudy weather is followed by bright sun and high temperatures. In greenhouses, shade cloth may be needed for some crops.

    In outdoor yards, foliage burn caused by sun and especially wind, can also occur when greenhouse plants have not been acclimated.
     
  • High ethylene concentrations can be produced in retail areas where dead and injured plants and spent flowers remain. Remove dead and injured plants and spent flowers at least a couple times a day, even during the busy season. Not only do customers get turned off when plants look bad, high ethylene concentrations can be produced. Ethylene is a plant hormone and growth regulator that is active at very low concentrations. In the sales yard, high ethylene concentrations can be devastating to plants, causing premature loss of foliage and flowers or premature flower death. Carry pruning shears and wear work aprons with large pockets to keep dead flowers and debris from plants in the sales area until disposed of in a waste can.

Reported by Tina Smith, UMass Extension Floriculture Specialist

Additional Resources

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Diagnostic Services

A UMass Laboratory Diagnoses Landscape and Turf Problems - The UMass Extension Plant Diagnostic Lab is available to serve commercial landscape contractors, turf managers, arborists, nurseries and other green industry professionals. It provides woody plant and turf disease analysis, woody plant and turf insect identification, turfgrass identification, weed identification, and offers a report of pest management strategies that are research based, economically sound and environmentally appropriate for the situation. Accurate diagnosis for a turf or landscape problem can often eliminate or reduce the need for pesticide use. For sampling procedures, detailed submission instructions and a list of fees, see Plant Diagnostics Laboratory

Soil and Plant Nutrient Testing - The University of Massachusetts Soil and Plant Nutrient Testing Laboratory is located on the campus of The University of Massachusetts at Amherst. Testing services are available to all. The function of the Soil and Plant Nutrient Testing Laboratory is to provide test results and recommendations that lead to the wise and economical use of soils and soil amendments. For complete information, visit the UMass Soil and Plant Nutrient Testing Laboratory web site.   Alternatively, call the lab at (413) 545-2311.