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Landscape Message: November 1, 2019

November 1, 2019
Issue: 
22

UMass Extension's Landscape Message is an educational newsletter intended to inform and guide Massachusetts Green Industry professionals in the management of our collective landscape. Detailed reports from scouts and Extension specialists on growing conditions, pest activity, and cultural practices for the management of woody ornamentals, trees, and turf are regular features. The following issue has been updated to provide timely management information and the latest regional news and environmental data.

The Landscape Message will be updated monthly November through December. The next message will be available on December 6. To receive immediate notification when the next Landscape Message update is posted, be sure to join our e-mail list.

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 data was collected on or about October 30, 2019. Total accumulated growing degree days (GDD) represent the heating units above a 50° F baseline temperature collected via our instruments for the 2019 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.

MA Region/Location

GDD

Soil Temp
(°F at 4" depth)

Precipitation
(4-Week Gain)

Time/Date of Readings

4-Week Gain

2019 Total

Sun

Shade

CAPE

127

2591

57

53

6.22

12:00 PM 10/30

SOUTHEAST

119.5

2715

62

62

4.00

3:00 PM 10/30

NORTH SHORE

97.5

2618

53

50

4.93

10:30 AM 10/30

EAST

104.5

2851.5

58

55

5.13

4:00 PM 10/30

METRO

48

2494

50

49

4.04

5:30 AM 10/30

CENTRAL

192

2785

51

49

5.82

7:00 AM 10/31

PIONEER VALLEY

64

2688.5

56

55

5.97

10:00 AM 10/30

BERKSHIRES

147

2345.5

55

52

7.75

9:45 AM 10/30

AVERAGE

180

2636

55

53

5.48

-

n/a = information not available

As of October 30, about half of the state is in category D0 - 'abnormally dry' - according to the US Drought Monitor: https://droughtmonitor.unl.edu/CurrentMap/StateDroughtMonitor.aspx?MA

Regional Notes

Cape Cod Region (Barnstable)

General Conditions: The average temperature for the period from October 2 thru October 30 was about 55˚F with a high of 75˚F on October 2 and a low of 36˚F on October 5. Overall, the period since about October 8 has had fairly consistent temperatures with highs mainly in the 60s and lows in the 50s, with only a handful of days deviating from that. Depending on where you live, there have been from 2 to 6 nights that have dropped into the 30s and the only areas to have seen any frost on the Cape are some low-lying cranberry bogs. Precipitation has been plentiful with the rain gauge in Barnstable recording just over 6 inches during the period. The precipitation has fallen both in deluges and as day-long drizzles. Gray days have been the norm. There have been a few weather events, the most serious being the low-pressure storm on October 17 which brought high winds and rain. Winds of 90 mph were recorded in Provincetown and 89 mph in Wellfleet, while most of the Cape saw 60-80mph gusts. The storm caused widespread damage to trees resulting in extensive power outages. There have also been several other high wind and precipitation events during the period resulting in a nearly endless picking up of branches. The high winds have also accelerated leaf drop in many tree species – especially those with decent color. Soil moisture is adequate to excessive. Those planning fall and early winter construction projects should be mindful of the soil moisture conditions and think about how to prevent soil compaction when using equipment. Conditions are still great for turf growth – so try to keep lawns free of leaves by mulching or removing so that they can receive as much sunlight as possible.

Pests/Problems: The lecanium scale which has been a widespread issue for much of the Cape on oaks and many other species, has and is migrating from the leaves to the woody twigs where it overwinters. Some areas with high populations have particularly ugly fall foliage due to the black sooty mold. Monitoring lecanium scale populations will be helpful in determining whether dormant oil applications will be necessary in the spring. Other insects or insect damage seen over the period include lace bug on azalea, Rhododendron, Andromeda, and sycamore and grub damage in turf. Diseases symptoms or signs observed during the period were leafspots and powdery mildew abundant on nearly everything, crown gall on woody ornamentals and rust on goldenrod (an alternate host for pine needle rust). Now is a good time to do cleanup – especially on diseased plants. Dead and decaying leaves and plant parts are often the primary source of disease inoculum the following season so a good cleanup now can go a long way in potentially reducing disease next season.

Southeast Region (Dighton)

General Conditions: Much needed rain has finally arrived along with cooler conditions. We have so far been spared a hard frost. Lawns have largely recovered from summer heat and drought stress and are greening up nicely. We are slightly past peak for fall color. Ash and Swamp Red Maple have dropped their leaves. Norway Maples are mostly yellow. Oaks and Hickories are colored. Burning bush (Euonymous alatus)is demonstrating how it earned its name. The following plants are in flower: Montauk daisy (Nipponanthemum nipponicum), "Knockout" roses and Franklin tree (Franklinia alatamaha).

Pests/Problems: Until we have a killing frost, mosquitoes are still a potential threat. Unfortunately, there have been four deaths reported from Triple E locally so the potential should not be discounted. Ticks are present and the more humid conditions favor their survival. Stink bugs, Asian lady beetle, conifer seed bugs, and cluster flies are looking for winter quarters, often in our homes.

North Shore (Beverly)

General Conditions: Temperatures were quite variable throughout the month of October. Day temperatures ranged from the low 50s to the low 60s and night temperatures ranged from the mid-30s to low 50s. Temperatures above 70 degrees were recorded on two days during the month with the highest temperature of 77˚F recorded on October 7. Temperatures below 40 degrees were recorded on 6 days with the lowest temperature of 34˚F recorded on October 5 and 20. Long Hill received 4.93 inches of much needed rainfall in the month of October. A storm came through on October 16 bringing rain and strong winds. The strong winds caused limb breakage on some trees and some weaker trees came down entirely during the storm. Homeowners and landscapers spent most of last week cleaning up after the storm. Fall clean up is ongoing throughout the region. Fall color continues in the landscape with foliage colors mainly yellows, oranges and reds despite many leaves falling. The few plants observed in the landscape proving bloom color include: Montauk daisy (Nipponanthemum nipponicum), Japanese Anemone (Anemone x hybrida) and ‘Sheffield Pink’ Chrysanthemum (Dendranthema x grandiflorum 'Sheffield'). Colorful fruiting plants such as hardy orange (Poncirus trifoliata), beautyberry (Callicarpa americana), Wright Viburnum (Viburnum wrightii) and winterberry (Ilex verticillata) are also providing color in the landscape by way of their fruits.

Pests/Problems: Ticks are still active and will remain active anytime the temperature is above freezing. Take precautions when raking leaves. Conduct tick checks after working outdoors. Use repellents containing DEET to protect yourself. Mosquito populations are mostly done for the year. Poison ivy (Toxicodendron radicans) and invasive species such as burning bush (Euonymus alatus) and Oriental bittersweet (Celastrus orbiculatus) are displaying fall foliage color and seeds in the woods while unfortunately displacing native plants upon which wildlife depend. Weed piles of (and any decorative arrangements containing) Oriental bittersweet should be bagged or burned for proper disposal.

East Region (Boston)

General Conditions: We have experienced mild weather during the month of October, with frequent rainy and windy days. Over the last four weeks, we reached a high of 79˚F on October 7th and have yet to experience a frost. Precipitation has been abundant - we received 5.13 inches over the last 4 weeks, with two major events on October 16/17 and 27, dropping 1.89 inches and 1.5 inches respectively. These moist soils and frequent wind events have brought down a number of trees. We have gained 104.5 GGDs, bringing the total to 2851.5 GDDs for the year. Over the reporting period, high temperatures ranged from 53˚F to 79˚F, averaging 62˚F, and low temperatures ranged from 35˚F to 58˚F, averaging 44.7˚F. Fall color has been extended as many plants continue to hold their leaves, dogwood, Viburnum, Fothergilla and maple in particular. Continuing to flower are autumn Clematis, Montauk daisy, and monkshood.

Pests/Problems: With the lack of cold temperatures, we have yet to receive a frost. This coupled with the abundance of moisture is causing mosquitoes to remain active at this time of year. The lack of a hard frost is also resulting in sporadic unpredictable fall cleanups. Prolonged leaf drop and surviving perennials throughout the month is contributing to a relatively small daily accumulation of debris. The non-native invasives burning bush and Oriental bittersweet continue to show brilliant color in the landscape and throughout unmanaged areas. Diseased (and non-native invasive) plant material should be collected and disposed of.

Metro West (Acton)

General Conditions: Mild, if not warm weather persisted into the month of October with a number of rain events, some heavy at times, and with strong winds. A low of 28°F was recorded on the 6th and a high of 75°F recorded on the 2nd. We did experience our first fall frost on the morning of the 6th. The dry weather pattern was broken with a number of much-needed rain events. The average monthly precipitation for October is 4.32” and the total measured for the month was 4.04”. Not much was observed in flower at this time of year with the exception of a few herbaceous perennials including: Aconitum napellus (monkshood), Allium thunbergii ‘Ozawa’ (ornamental onion), Aster spp. (New England Aster, New York Aster, smoother Aster, white wood Aster), A. tataricus (Tatarian Aster), and Nipponanthemum nipponicum (Montauk daisy). Fruits, pomes, and seeds are providing some additional interest in the landscape. Noted were the red fruits of Convallaria majalis (lily of the valley), Cornus florida (flowering dogwood), C. kousa (Kousa dogwood) and Ilex verticilata (winterberry). A variety of colors and sizes of fruit were seen on Callicarpa dichotoma (beautyberry), Cornus racemosa (gray dogwood), Crataegus spp. (hawthorn), Malus spp. (apple and crabapple), Rosa spp. (rose), Sorbus spp. (mountain ash) and Viburnum spp. Lovely are the seed heads on ornamental grasses: Chasmanthium latifolium (northern sea oats), Miscanthus sp. (maiden grass), Panicum virgatum (switch grass), Pennisetum alopecuroides (fountain grass), seed capsules on Heptacodium miconioides (seven-son-flower), seed pods on Catalpa sp., Gleditsia triacanthos (honeylocust) and Gymnocladus dioicus (Kentucky coffee tree), and nuts on Carya spp. (hickory), Juglans spp. (walnut) and Quercus spp. (oak).

Pests/Problems: With the recent rain events, drought conditions in the area have improved. There is a large amount of leaf and woody debris on the ground from the recent storms and strong winds. Euonymous alatus (burning bush), a non-native, invasive woody plant, is “on fire”, pushing put desirable native plants and easily detected by its brilliant red foliage.

Central Region (Boylston)

General Conditions: This has been a tremendous year for fall color. It seems the combination of mild temperatures, low wind, and adequate (if not above average) rainfall for the month of October were a blessing for vibrant color, especially for later season foliage. Still showing strong color at the end of this reporting period are: Itea virginica (Virginia sweetspire), Hydrangea quercifolia (oakleaf Hydrangea), Rhus aromatica ‘Gro-Low’ (fragrant sumac), and many species of oak and maple. Several deciduous conifers, such as Ginkgo biloba (ginkgo), Metasequoia glyptostroboides (dawn redwood), and Taxodium distichum (bald cypress) are also showing strong color. Many summer annuals and annual vegetable crops that have not been ripped out are still going strong owing to how little frost we’ve experienced to date. This is the time of year to remind gardeners to leave perennial stems intact and to leave fallen foliage in place as much as possible in the garden through the winter. Fallen leaves and dry perennial stems provide habitat for overwintering insects like solitary bees, and many species of moths and butterflies. Fallen leaves make a fantastic mulch for perennial borders, and providing habitat is a great excuse to leave the rake in the tool shed.

Pests/Problems: Aside from waterlogged soils that are easily compacted, and difficult to work around, there are no substantial pest issues or problems in the garden at this time. Because they tend to hold foliage later in the season than native plants, this is the time of year when many invasive plant species are easily spotted. Target removal of Asian bittersweet (Celastrus orbiculatus), winged euonymus (Euonymus alatus), and Japanese barberry (Berberis thunbergii) seedlings at this time of year because they are so easy to find and remove.

Pioneer Valley Region (Amherst)

General Conditions: October is done and the year is winding down as we reach the penultimate edition of the LM. High temperatures continue to swing from the mid-50s to upper 60s with low temperatures ranging from the low 30s to upper 40s. The valley has experienced several frosts but a hard freeze (≤27° F) has yet to occur. The foliage display this autumn was spectacular in western Mass. Maple, birch, elm and ash, among many others were on fire this season with vibrant yellow, orange and red leaves. The color from an open-grown, mature sugar or red maple when they’re in peak glory is tough to beat. The yellow to copper foliage of beech and golden to red foliage of oak is on display now with various other late season trees and shrubs (Japanese maple, dogwood, etc.) providing color as well. The underutilized larch will conclude the barrage of fall color in early November. This time of year is when we can readily view the invasive burning bush and its bright red foliage in forest understories. Thankfully, this species is only locally invasive and not overtaking the region like Oriental bittersweet and Japanese knotweed. Native witch-hazel is flowering, providing a subtle, but beautiful compliment to the landscape, especially when the small yellow flowers contrast against dark-colored conifers. After below-average precipitation this growing season, the region finally experienced several soaking rainstorms. However, it definitely came too late for deciduous trees and shrubs in the landscape, which are close to dormant for the year. For conifers like eastern hemlock and eastern white pine, the rains should be more helpful. The most significant storm occurred on 10/16–17 with accumulations of 3–4″ in many areas. This was the first truly soaking rain we experienced in the valley since April. In addition to the rain, the nor’easter brought sustained winds >30 mph and gusts >45 mph, recorded at Barnes Airport in Westfield. Downed trees and limbs resulted in patchy power outages but the area fared far better than eastern Mass. The strong winds from this storm also revealed which fall-transplanted trees required staking. Additional storms on 10/22–23 (0.76″), 10/27 (1.05″) and at the time of writing on 10/30–31 continued the trend of significant rainfall. Overall, October was very cloudy, with measurable precipitation recorded on half of all days in the month. This was a stark departure from the dry and sunny September. Turfgrasses have enjoyed the rain and cool temperatures and are healthy once more at this time. Mowing will likely continue into November for many lawns. Good, bad or indifferent, the growing season is over and once the leaves are cleaned up, it’s time for a break.

Pests/Problems: Overall, insect and disease pressures are low at this time as we approach winter dormancy. Various cankering fungi remain active through October, taking advantage of cooler temperatures, increased precipitation and host dormancy to advance and sporulate. The needle cast pathogens Rhizosphaera and Stigmina have been very active on spruce and fir. Needle blight pathogens of arborvitae (Pestalotiopsis and Phyllosticta) have also been abundant. For deciduous trees that suffered from foliar blights this season, fall clean-ups help to remove dead leaves that serve to overwinter many of these fungi. Ideally some of this leaf tissue is composted through mowing around the tree so that nutrients can be recaptured. Ensure small and young trees and shrubs are protected from rabbit and deer herbivory as winter approaches.

A mature sugar maple (Acer saccharum) at peak foliage (10/12/19). Native witch-hazel (Hamamelis virginiana) in flower (10/29/19).

Berkshire Region (Great Barrington)

General Conditions: The first frost of the season occurred on the morning of October 5 when the thermometer at this location (West Stockbridge) registered 28˚F. Subsequently, frost occurred on four other mornings, i.e. 10/16 (30˚F), 10/19 (31˚F), 10/20 (28˚F), and 10/24 (29˚F). Needless to say, the growing season for tender annuals is over. There are still many late blooming perennials to be enjoyed, e.g. monkshood (Aconitum), cranesbill (Geranium), hybrid Anemone, and a smattering of various asters and mums.

The big weather story of the month occurred on the night of 10/16 and the following day. Heavy rains (4.45 inches in West Stockbridge; 4.59 inches at Pittsfield Airport) caused some minor flooding and left soils saturated. More daunting was the frequency of strong wind gusts of more than 50 MPH. Power outages were common. Though the winds toppled some trees there were fewer than one might expect from the high winds and saturated soils. However, there was an abundance of leaf and twig debris covering roads and landscapes. Turfgrass growth has slowed and perhaps one more mowing would suffice for this year. Yet, if it’s growin’, keep mowin’.

Pests/Problems: Pest issues are few at this time. House invading insects such as Western conifer seed bug, multicolored Asian lady beetle, boxelder bug, and stink bugs may be the biggest nuisances. However, black-legged tick (deer tick) is the most serious of pests at this time as they are frequently found among leaves and other yard and garden debris being collected. As such, all the usual precautions should be taken when doing such work. Wasps and yellow jackets are still abundant, mostly feeding on fallen fruit. On a positive note, they seem to be very lethargic. Deer browsing in managed landscapes has picked up a bit and thus the application of repellents at this time is advisable. Since deer tend to return to the same sites and plant materials, application of repellents will help break such patterns. Repellents need to be re-applied periodically.

Regional Scouting Credits

  • CAPE COD REGION - Russell Norton, Horticulture and Agriculture Educator with Cape Cod Cooperative Extension, reporting from Barnstable.
  • SOUTHEAST REGION - Brian McMahon, Arborist, reporting from the Dighton area.
  • 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 Boston area.
  • METRO WEST REGION – Julie Coop, Forester, Massachusetts Department of Conservation & Recreation, reporting from Acton.
  • CENTRAL REGION - Mark Richardson, Director of Horticulture reporting from 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

Recent pests and pathogens of interest seen in the UMass Extension Plant Diagnostic Lab https://ag.umass.edu/services/plant-diagnostics-laboratory

Diseases

Diagnostic Sample Trends: Earlier this autumn season, many hemlocks (Tsuga) were losing an above-average volume of needles through natural senescence. Since that time, the lab has received a number of falsecypress (Chamaecyparis) and true fir (Abies) samples that are also experiencing heavy needle shedding. Why these conifers are dropping large numbers of older needles is unknown but it’s likely a response to some abiotic stress. Cold injury from last winter? Drought stress? While it was dry this summer in some parts of the Commonwealth, others received normal to above-average rainfall. The needle cast pathogen Rhizosphaera has also been abundant on lab samples over the past month, causing disease on a variety of spruce (Norway, Oriental, blue and white) and true fir (white and Fraser).

Beech bark disease, caused by Neonectria spp., on American beech (Fagus grandifolia). Many trees of various ages in a forest setting. The bright red-colored, masses of fruiting bodies (known as perithecia) were very conspicuous on the trunk (see photos below). The perithecia are produced in elliptical-shaped masses for several successive years until the bark becomes extremely rough and cracked. During the later stages of infection, the perithecia are no longer visible. Cankering fungi like Neonectria are active during the autumn season as trees are preparing for dormancy, evading natural defenses and taking advantage of cooler and wetter weather.

Severe infestation of the cryptomeria scale (Aspidiotus cryptomeria) on fir (Abies sp.). Trees are approximately 10-years-old and have been present at the site for four years. Roughly 20 trees were planted six feet apart in an open lawn area with full sun. Over the past several years, needles have appeared chlorotic with patchy spots on the surface and tree vigor has been poor. The submitted sample indicated the trees are harboring a severe infestation of this non-native armored scale pest.

Shoot tip dieback, undersized needles and needle tip yellowing on eastern hemlock (Tsuga canadensis) due to chronic landscape stresses and fungal cankering by Phomopsis. Hedge row of approximately 50-year-old hemlocks on a slight slope behind a pool area with a mix of sun and shade. The sandy-loam soils were described as very dry and mulched excessively. Eastern hemlocks in landscape settings often suffer from soil compaction, root competition from turfgrasses, drought stress and over-pruning. The fungal pathogen Phomopsis is very common on blighted shoot tips, behaving as an opportunistic pathogen of these weakened trees.

Needle cast of Norway spruce (Picea abies) caused by Rhizosphaera. Tree is approximately 60-years-old and resides in a full sun setting. Upper canopy branches are thinning out but branch tip dieback is not evident at this time. The managing arborist noted the pattern of injury is similar to trees infested by the Norway spruce gall midge but none were found from the submitted sample. A large percentage of older needles and some of the current year’s needles were chlorotic with dark blotches. Rhizosphaera was very abundant on these symptomatic needles after a brief incubation. The property is close to the ocean and exposed to damp, foggy conditions that are ideal for needle cast pathogens.

Leaf wilting and premature shedding on star Magnolia (Magnolia stellata) caused by Colletotrichum. Tree is approximately 15-years-old and resides in a partial shade setting. There was no sign of infestation by the Magnolia scale, which has been abundant in recent years. Foliar anthracnose caused by Colletotrichum can result in significant leaf shedding on Magnolia at times. There was no evidence that the fungus was also causing a stem canker.

Red-colored fruiting bodies (perithecia) produced by Neonectria, cause of beech bark disease.

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

Insects

Multicolored Asian lady beetles are common fall home invading insects at this time of year. A cluster is observed in a home in Hampshire County, MA. (Tawny Simisky, UMass Extension) Multicolored Asian lady beetles are common fall home invading insects at this time of year. A cluster is observed in a home in Hampshire County, MA. (Tawny Simisky, UMass Extension) Fall Home-Invading Insects: Various insects, such as ladybugs, boxelder bugs, seedbugs, and stink bugs have found overwintering shelters in warm places. Such suitable shelters include the home of this particular entomologist, where multicolored Asian lady beetles (Harmonia axyridis) seem particularly happy taking refuge. On warmer, sunny days in the past month, these lady beetles could be seen swarming the sunny side of houses and municipal buildings in Hampshire County, MA. While such invaders do not cause any structural damage, they can become a nuisance especially when they are present in large numbers. If you are not willing to share your home with such insects, repair torn window screens, repair gaps around windows and doors, and shore up any other gaps through which they might enter the home. When they do enter the home, a vacuum cleaner becomes a handy pest management tool to easily rid yourself of these unwelcome invaders: just remember to empty the bag/canister so they do not begin to give off odors!

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

  • Asian Longhorned Beetle: (Anoplophora glabripennis, ALB) Look for signs of an ALB infestation which include perfectly round exit holes (about the size of a dime), shallow oval or round scars in the bark where a female has chewed an egg site, or sawdust-like frass (excrement) on the ground nearby host trees or caught in between branches. Be advised that other, native insects may create perfectly round exit holes or sawdust-like frass, which can be confused with signs of ALB activity.

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 seen damage caused by this insect, such as exit holes or egg sites, 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 .

  • Deer Tick/Blacklegged Tick: Deer tick (Ixodes scapularis) adult activity increased through October, and will remain active throughout the winter whenever temperatures are above freezing. For images of all deer tick life stages, along with an outline of the diseases they carry, visit: http://www.tickencounter.org/tick_identification/deer_tick .

Anyone working in the yard and garden should be aware that there is the potential to encounter deer ticks. The deer tick or blacklegged tick can transmit Lyme disease, human babesiosis, human anaplasmosis, and other diseases. Preventative activities, such as daily tick checks, wearing appropriate clothing, and permethrin treatments for clothing (according to label instructions) can aid in reducing the risk that a tick will become attached to your body. If a tick cannot attach and feed, it will not transmit disease. For more information about personal protective measures, visit: http://www.tickencounter.org/prevention/protect_yourself . For a quick overview of skin repellents available to protect yourself from ticks, visit “Tickology: Skin Repellents” by Larry Dapsis of Cape Cod Cooperative Extension:https://bit.ly/2J8IJBl .

Have you just removed an attached tick from yourself or a loved one with a pair of tweezers? If so, consider sending the tick to the UMass Laboratory of Medical Zoology to be tested for disease causing pathogens. To submit a tick to be tested, visit: https://www.tickreport.com/ and click on the blue “Order a TickReport” button. Results are typically available within 3 business days, or less. By the time you make an appointment with your physician following the tick attachment, you may have the results back from TickReport to bring to your physician to aid in a conversation about risk.

The UMass Laboratory of Medical Zoology does not give medical advice, nor are the results of their tests diagnostic of human disease. Transmission of a pathogen from the tick to you is dependent upon how long the tick had been feeding, and each pathogen has its own transmission time. TickReport is an excellent measure of exposure risk for the tick (or ticks) that you send in to be tested. Feel free to print out and share your TickReport with your healthcare provider.

  • Emerald ash borer larval galleries from an infested tree located in Amherst, MA observed on 10/15/19 (Tawny Simisky, UMass Extension). Emerald ash borer larvae collected from an infested tree located in Amherst, MA observed on 10/15/19 (Tawny Simisky, UMass Extension). Emerald Ash Borer: (Agrilus planipennis, EAB) The Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation has recently confirmed EAB in additional communities in Massachusetts (including in Amherst, MA). For an updated map of these locations, please visit:https://ag.umass.edu/fact-sheets/emerald-ash-borer .

This wood-boring beetle readily attacks ash (Fraxinus spp.) including white, green, and black ash and has also been found developing in white fringe tree (Chionanthus virginicus) and has been reported in cultivated olive (Olea europaea). Signs of an EAB infested tree may include D-shaped exit holes in the bark (from adult emergence), “blonding” or lighter coloration of the ash bark from woodpecker feeding (chipping away of the bark as they search for larvae beneath), and serpentine galleries visible through splits in the bark, from larval feeding beneath. Positive identification of an EAB-infested tree may not be possible with these signs individually on their own.

For further information about this insect, please visit: https://ag.umass.edu/fact-sheets/emerald-ash-borer . If you believe you have located EAB-infested ash trees, particularly in an area of Massachusetts not identified on the map provided, please report here: http://massnrc.org/pests/pestreports.htm .

  • Spotted Lanternfly: (Lycorma delicatula, SLF) is not known to occur in Massachusetts landscapes (no established populations are known in MA at this time). However, officials with the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR) urged residents to check plants for spotted lanternfly. On February 21, 2019 MDAR announced the discovery of a single dead spotted lanternfly adult at a private residence in Boston. As a result of this discovery, officials asked the public to check potted plants they purchase and report any suspicious insects. MDAR reports that this particular individual appeared to have been unintentionally transported this past December in a shipment of poinsettia plants originating from Pennsylvania. Officials also report that there is currently no evidence that this pest has become established in MA. For more information about this finding, please visit the MA Department of Agricultural Resources press release:https://www.mass.gov/news/state-agricultural-officials-urge-residents-to-check-plants-for-spotted-lanternfly .

This insect is a member of the Order Hemiptera (true bugs, cicadas, hoppers, aphids, and others) and the Family Fulgoridae, also known as planthoppers. The spotted lanternfly is a non-native species first detected in the United States in Berks County, Pennsylvania and confirmed on September 22, 2014.

The spotted lanternfly is considered native to China, India, and Vietnam. It has been introduced as a non-native insect to South Korea and Japan, prior to its detection in the United States. In South Korea, it is considered invasive and a pest of grapes and peaches. The spotted lanternfly has been reported from over 70 species of plants, including the following: tree of heaven (Ailanthus altissima) (preferred host), apple (Malus spp.), plum, cherry, peach, apricot (Prunus spp.), grape (Vitis spp.), pine (Pinus spp.), pignut hickory (Carya glabra), Sassafras (Sassafras albidum), serviceberry (Amelanchier spp.), slippery elm (Ulmus rubra), tulip poplar (Liriodendron tulipifera), white ash (Fraxinus americana), willow (Salix spp.), American beech (Fagus grandifolia), American linden (Tilia americana), American sycamore (Platanus occidentalis), big-toothed aspen (Populus grandidentata), black birch (Betula lenta), black cherry (Prunus serotina), black gum (Nyssa sylvatica), black walnut (Juglans nigra), dogwood (Cornus spp.), Japanese snowbell (Styrax japonicus), maple (Acer spp.), oak (Quercus spp.), and paper birch (Betula papyrifera).

The adults and immatures of this species damage host plants by feeding on sap from stems, leaves, and the trunks of trees. In the springtime in Pennsylvania (late April - mid-May) nymphs (immatures) are found on smaller plants and vines and new growth of trees and shrubs. Third and fourth instar nymphs migrate to the tree of heaven and are observed feeding on trunks and branches. Trees may be found with sap weeping from the wounds caused by the insect’s feeding. The sugary secretions (excrement) created by this insect may coat the host plant, later leading to the growth of sooty mold. Insects such as wasps, hornets, bees, and ants may also be attracted to the sugary waste created by the lanternflies, or sap weeping from open wounds in the host plant. Host plants have been described as giving off a fermented odor when this insect is present.

Adults are present by the middle of July in Pennsylvania and begin laying eggs by late September and continue laying eggs through late November and even early December in that state. Adults may be found on the trunks of trees such as the tree of heaven or other host plants growing in close proximity to them. Egg masses of this insect are gray in color and, in some ways, look similar to gypsy moth egg masses.

Host plants, bricks, stone, lawn furniture, recreational vehicles, and other smooth surfaces can be inspected for egg masses. Egg masses laid on outdoor residential items such as those listed above may pose the greatest threat for spreading this insect via human aided movement.

For more information about the spotted lanternfly, visit this fact sheet: https://ag.umass.edu/landscape/fact-sheets/spotted-lanternfly .

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 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. 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 UMass Laboratory of Medical Zoology (https://www.tickreport.com/ ) and click on the blue Order a TickReport button for more information.

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

Urban and Community Forestry

Planting for Resilience: Selecting Urban Trees in Massachusetts

The new street tree selection guide, titled “Planting for Resilience: Selecting Urban Trees in Massachusetts,'' has been produced by the Department of Environmental Conservation and the Center for Agriculture Food and the Environment, at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. The guide was authored by graduate researcher, Ashley M. McElhinney, and Extension Associate Professor of Urban and Community Forestry, Dr. Richard W. Harper. It is designed to function as a key resource for anyone interested in selecting and planting a tree in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts – tree wardens, urban foresters, professional arborists, volunteers that work with urban trees, and private residents.

The guide aims to provide readers with the information necessary to more confidently choose which tree species is best for their planting site, employing the “right tree, right place” approach. Proactive planning is a critical strategy to creating and maintaining a healthy, diverse urban forest, that ranges from the downtown urban core, to parks and greenways, to private properties. Trees growing in urban areas are becoming increasingly important in maintaining and protecting human and environmental health in the face of urbanization and global climate change.

This guide outlines the characteristics and attributes of each of its tree species, detailing ornamental traits and site preferences. It also includes observations regarding tolerance to adverse conditions often found in urban environments and information relative to climate change adaptability.

Profiles for nearly 80 recommended tree species are included, ranging from native trees found commonly grown and planted in Massachusetts, to non-native trees adept at surviving in toughurban environments. A critical objective of this guide is to encourage diversity among urban trees at the time of selection and planting.

A two-part resource featuring both a video tutorial discussion of the guide and a free downloadable version of the guide (pdf), has also been made available in the “Lectures” section of the menu on the http://www.urbanforestrytoday.org/ website. Certified arborists that view the tutorial and download the guide may obtain continuing education credits (1.0 ISA CEU’s & 0.5 MCA credits).

***

Ashley M. McElhinney, M.S., is a graduate of the Department of Environmental Conservation, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA.

Richard W. Harper, Ph.D., is the Extension Associate Professor of Urban & Community Forestry, Department of Environmental Conservation, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA.

The authors gratefully acknowledge the support and expertise of Gwendolyn Stoll and Professors Bethany Bradley, Ph.D., and Mandy Bayer, Ph.D.

This work was supported by the USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture – McIntire Stennis Project # 34, Accession #1014171. This reference was funded in part by the USDA Forest Service through the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation Urban & Community Forestry Program. The University of Massachusetts is an equal opportunity provider.

Reported by Rick Harper, UMass Extension Associate Professor of Urban & Community Forestry, Department of Environmental Conservation, UMass Amherst


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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.

Ticks are active at this time! Remember to take appropriate precautions when working and playing outdoors, and conduct daily tick checks. UMass tests ticks for the presence of Lyme disease and other disease pathogens. Learn more