Landscape Message: September 6, 2019

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.

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

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Scouting Information by Region

Environmental Data

The following data was collected on or about September 4, 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 (2-Week Gain)	Time/Date of Readings
	2-Week Gain	2019 Total	Sun	Shade
CAPE	247	2090	70	67	0.79	12:00 PM 9/4
SOUTHEAST	244	2239	81	73	2.00	3:00 PM 9/4
NORTH SHORE	236.5	2173	n/a	n/a	n/a	n/a
EAST	258.5	2357.5	71	74	1.90	5:00 PM 9/4
METRO	170.5	2112	64	62	3.09	6:30 AM 9/4
CENTRAL	231	2248.5	64	64	1.95	4:30 PM 9/4
PIONEER VALLEY	241	2251.5	69	67	1.64	10:00 AM 9/4
BERKSHIRES	201.5	2012	69	65	2.03	8:45 AM 9/4
AVERAGE	229	2185	70	67	1.91	-

n/a = information not available

For both a map and a list of towns currently under water use restrictions, see: https://www.mass.gov/service-details/outdoor-water-use-restrictions-for-cities-towns-and-golf-courses

As of September 3, there are neither drought nor 'abnormally dry' conditions indicated for any town in MA according to the US Drought Monitor: https://droughtmonitor.unl.edu/CurrentMap/StateDroughtMonitor.aspx?MA

Phenology

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.
Heptacodium miconioides (seven-son flower)	Begin	*	*	Begin	Begin	Begin	Begin	*
Clematis paniculata (sweet autumn Clematis)	*	*	Begin	*	*	*	Begin	Begin
Polygonum cuspidatum (Japanese knotweed)	Begin/Full	Begin/Full	Begin/Full	Begin	Begin	Begin/Full	Full	Begin
Hibiscus syriacus (rose-of-Sharon)	Full/End	Full	Full	Full	Full	Full	Full	Full
Buddleia davidii (butterfly bush)	Full/End	Full	Full	Full	Full	Full	Full	Full
* = no activity to report/information not available

Regional Notes

Cape Cod Region (Barnstable)

General Conditions: The average temperature over the period from August 21 – September 4 was approximately 68˚F with a high of 86˚F on August 22 and a low of 49˚F on August 27. In general, daytime highs have been in the 70s and nighttime lows in the 60s, with a handful of nights falling into the 50s. Showers on August 28 and 29 delivered about ¾” inch of rain in Barnstable; however, areas to the west saw significantly more rain – my rain gauge (Sandwich) had over three inches from the event. Topsoil moisture is short and subsoil moisture is adequate. Now is the time for major turf renovation projects.

Pests/Problems: Our office is still handling lots of calls about sooty mold, in some areas the undergrowth under oak trees is nearly black from the sooty mold. The sooty mold is a result of high populations of lecanium scale which feed primarily on oak. For more detail see the Trouble Maker of the Month in June’s HortNotes: https://ag.umass.edu/landscape/newsletters/hort-notes/hort-notes-2019-vol-305  Other insects or insect damage seen during the period include chilli thrips on Hydrangea, Hibiscus sawfly on hardy Hibiscus, sycamore lace-bug on sycamore, azalea lacebug on ‘PJM’ Rhododendron, Andromeda lacebug on Japanese Pieris. Disease symptoms or signs observed over the period include tar spot on both red maple and Norway maple, leaf blight on river birch, cedar-apple rust, apple scab, and marsonni leaf spot on crabapple, downy mildew on garden Impatiens, and powdery mildew on many species of annuals, perennials, shrubs, and trees. Weeds in bloom include crabgrass (Digitaria spp.), pilewort (Erechtites hieraciifolius), ragweed (Ambrosia artemisiifolia), beggarticks (Bidens frondosa), horseweed (Conyza canadensis), and European hawkweed (Hieracium vulgatum). Fall fruiting mushrooms are starting to show up. Keep yourself protected from mosquitoes; some areas of the Cape are considered at moderate risk due to recent detections of EEE in collected mosquitoes.

Southeast Region (Dighton)

General Conditions: We've had cool Canadian air interspersed with bands of thunderstorms and much needed rains. The following plants are in flower: rose of Sharon (Hybiscus syriacus), trumpet vine (Campsus radicans), Hydrangea macrophylla, H. quercifolia, black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia spp.), Russian sage (Perovskia atriplicifolia), Joe-Pye weed (Eutrochium purpureum), iron weed (Vernonia spp.), mimosa (Albizia julibrissin), Franklinia alatamaha, common ragweed (Ambrosia artemisiifolia), common reed (Phragmites australis), mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris), Japanese knotweed (Reynoutria japonica), autumn Clematis (Clematis paniculata), and Sedum 'Autumn Joy'.

Pests/Problems: Mosquito borne diseases continue to be an issue of concern to those who work outdoors. There have been at least four confirmed cases of EEE virus in the area. Unfortunately, there was one fatality - a middle-aged woman from Dartmouth. Please be sure to take appropriate precautions to avoid mosquito bites. Although we have had cooler temperatures and some precipitation, lawns have yet to recover, woody plants continue to show fall color and drop leaves. Be sure that stressed plantings have adequate irrigation.

North Shore (Beverly)

There is no report this period.

East Region (Boston)

General Conditions: Over the last two weeks we received measurable rain on three occasions (August 28, 29 and September 2) totaling 1.9 inches. The month of August was a wet month, having received 4.75 inches of rain. Low temperatures ranged from 49˚F to 68˚F, averaging 58˚F, while high temperatures ranged from 67˚F to 91˚F, averaging 79˚F. We reached a high of 91˚F on August 22nd. Over the last two weeks, we have reached highs in the 80's or above on 4 occasions. We dipped down to a cool 49˚F on August 27th. We are currently at 2357.5 GDDs having gained 258.5 GDDs over the last 2 weeks. Hydrangea spp. continue to flower throughout the landscape. Many perennials are also in flower. Plants in bloom include: Albizia julibrissin (mimosa), Campsis radicans (trumpet vine), Franklinia alatamaha and Perovskia atriplicifolia (Russian sage).

Pests/Problems: Despite the precipitation soil conditions remain dry. Premature leaf drop is common throughout the landscape. Several causes may be tar spot on maples, leaf blight on birches, apple scab and leafspot on many Rosaceous plants. Downy mildew is visible on susceptible perennials, shrubs and trees. Many landscape weeds are flowering and setting seed. Japanese knotweed is in full bloom.

Metro West (Acton)

General Conditions: Labor Day has come and gone, which typically marks the end of summer by bringing with it cooler temperatures and shorter days. Plants are heavy with fruit, seed, berries, and nuts. For August, the historical monthly average precipitation is 3.72” and 5.34” of rain was recorded. 4.65” of that 5.34’ total fell in 3 storm events, 1.79” measured on the 7^th, 0.97” on the 17^th, and 1.89” on the 28^th. This is the third month in a row where precipitation exceeded its historical monthly average. September’s average rainfall is 3.77” and 0.74” of precipitation has been recorded for the month so far. In some stage of bloom at this time are the following woody plants: Albizia julibrissin (silk tree), Buddleia spp. (butterfly bush), Clethra alnifolia (summersweet), Heptacodium miconioides (seven-son flower), Hibiscus syriacus (rose-of-Sharon), H. paniculata (panicle Hydrangea) and its many cultivars including 'Tardiva', Potentilla fruticosa (Potentilla), and Rosa 'Knockout' (knockout family of roses). A woody vine in bloom is Clematis paniculata (sweet autumn Clematis). Contributing even more color and interest to the landscape are some flowering herbaceous plants including: Achillea millefolium (yarrow), Aster spp. (New England Aster, New York Aster, smooth Aster, white wood Aster), Astilbe spp. (false Spirea), Boltonia asteroides (Bolton’s Aster), Chelone lyonii (pink turtlehead), Daucus carota (Queen Anne's lace), Echinacea purpurea (coneflower) and its many cultivars, Eutrochium purpureum (Joe Pye weed), Hemerocallis spp. (daylily), Hosta spp. (plantain lily), Kirengeshoma palmata (yellow wax bells), Leucanthemum spp. (shasta daisy), Lythrum salicaria (purple loosestrife), Monarda didyma (scarlet bee-balm), Patrinia gibbosa (Patrinia), Perovskia atriplicifolia (Russian sage), Phlox carolina (Carolina Phlox), P. paniculata (garden Phlox), Rudbeckia fulgida var. sullivantii 'Goldsturm' (black-eyed Susan), Sedum ‘Autumn Joy’, and S. ‘Rosy Glow’ (stonecrops), Senna marilandica (wild Senna), Solidago spp. (goldenrod), and Tanacetum vulgare (tansy).

Pests/Problems: Look to the Official Website of the Executive Office of Health and Human Services https://www.mass.gov/guides/eee-in-massachusetts for additional information on Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) and you will see that EEE has been detected in Middlesex county as well as nine other counties within the state. Currently towns surrounding Acton are considered to be at either low, moderate or high-risk levels for EEE and residents are encouraged to take precautions.

Central Region (Boylston)

General Conditions: The end of August was equal parts summer and fall, with wide temperature swings, highs in the upper 80’s and very humid on occasion, and lows into the mid-40’s overnight. Rainfall came in the form of scattered thundershowers, and depending on where you are in the region, precipitation may have been ample or not nearly enough. In Boylston, most of the rain fell around us, amounting to just shy of two inches for the reporting period. Fall color has started to arrive, and many trees have started shedding foliage already. Great foliage color was observed on Itea virginica (Virginia sweetspire) and Benthamidia (Cornus) florida (flowering dogwood). Late season flowers are holding strong. Many species of goldenrod (Solidago) are flowering, as are Eutrochium maculatum (Joe-Pye weed), white wood aster (Eurybia divaricata), Actaea simplex (black bugbane), Vernonia noveboracensis (New York ironweed), German garlic (Allium senescens subsp. glaucum), Conoclinium coelestinum (blue mistflower), Caryopteris x clandonensis (Caryopteris), Kirengeshoma palmata (yellow wax bells), (mountain mint (Pycnanthemum spp.), and both Lobelia cardinalis (cardinal flower) and Lobelia siphilitica (great blue Lobelia).

Pests/Problems: There is heightened concern about EEE here and across the state, but few significant plant pest issues to report. Powdery mildew and other foliar concerns are of little consequence at this time of year. Purple loosestrife (Lythrum salicaria) is still in bloom, as is Japanese knotweed (Fallopia japonica).

Pioneer Valley Region (Amherst)

General Conditions: The autumn season has unofficially started in the Pioneer Valley with the passing of Labor Day and the beginning of another semester here at UMass. We experienced mild day-time temperatures with some spectacularly cool nights over this past reporting period. Temperatures were hot and/or humid from 8/18 through 8/23, but since that time, highs have ranged from the upper 70s to mid-80s with a mixture of sun and clouds. The decreasing sun angle is very noticeable right now and the morning and afternoon shadows are growing. Low temperatures, in what was a bit of a shock, dipped to 45°F (8/26) and 49°F (8/27) at Barnes Airport in Westfield but otherwise hovered in the 50s and low 60s. The Labor Day holiday weekend this year stood in stark contrast to 2018, when the heat index soared over 100°F. This year, the conditions were just about perfect for anything outdoors, save for Labor Day itself. Many trees and shrubs have blighted foliage and canopy dieback while others are churning right along in good health. Late in the season, one can see it all. Red maples can be spotted turning color along with a smattering of various other trees in a state of stress. We did experience some rain in the region since our last report, with ~0.5″ on 8/21, 0.85″ on 8/28 and ~0.35″ on 9/2. None of these storms were anything to write home about, although the 8/28 rainfall approached the 1″ threshold needed for a good watering. The cooler weather has lessened the stress on many landscape trees and shrubs, especially those suffering from transplant shock. It would seem the fall planting season has started early this year.

Pests/Problems: Many hemlocks in the region are senescing older, interior canopy needles. It appears that many American and European beech are suffering from late season stress. A number of trees have been observed with chlorotic foliage, brown leaf margins and premature leaf shedding. Late season masses of fall webworm were observed on panicle Hydrangea (Hydrangea paniculata 'Tardiva') and Mariesii Viburnum (Viburnum plicatum f. tomentosum 'Mariesii'). The caterpillars were small in number and size with limited damage done. Oak leaf blister, caused by Taphrina caerulescens, was recently observed on pin and black oak on the UMass campus (see photos below). Oak leaf blister is relatively uncommon in this area but does appear from time to time, especially on nursery stock originating from the mid-Atlantic. Lacebug and spider mite injury was also observed on oaks at UMass, but the damage was scattered and mostly minor in severity. The brown cubical rot pathogen of conifers (Phaeolus schweinitzii) is now producing the mustard-yellow, annual fruiting bodies (see photo below from an infected Austrian pine at UMass, now dead and gone). The fungus can be found most often on eastern white pine and Norway spruce, in addition to hard pines and larch. A common wood-rotting pathogen of hardwoods, Ganoderma sessile (previously G. lucidum) is also producing new fruiting bodies. The annual conks are dark red on the surface with a cream-colored margin and white pore layer. The overlapping shelves are rubbery and shiny (laccate) when fresh, becoming hardened and dull red/brown over time (see photos below from an infected red oak at UMass, photos taken 9/4/19). The remnants of last year’s conks are often visible beneath or adjacent to the current season’s conks. Two very large bald-faced hornet nests have been observed on campus and serve as a good reminder that wasps can be very aggressive this time of year. Take note of any areas where ground nests are known to occur and avoid disturbing any large nests in tree canopies. No-see-ums continue to be a major annoyance when working outdoors in the morning hours and in shaded settings.

 

 

 

 

Berkshire Region (Great Barrington)

General Conditions: There’s a definite chill in the air as temperatures dropped into the 40˚F range on 5 of the past 14 days. A low of 43˚F was recorded on the morning of August 26. Also, daytime high temperatures are now routinely in the low to mid-70’s. Nevertheless, August finished as a very warm and very dry month with rainfall about 2 inches below normal. It was the third straight month with below average rainfall. Growth of non-irrigated turfgrass has slowed. Brown patches in closely mowed lawns are quite apparent on many sites. The Labor Day rain varied from slightly less than an inch at the Berkshire Botanical Garden in Stockbridge to 1.30 inches in Richmond. At this site in West Stockbridge, rainfall measured 1.18 inches. The rain was welcomed as soils were getting quite moisture deficient. Some woody plants, notably the invasive burning bush (Euonymus alatus), are displaying some fall color.

Pests/Problems: Pest pressures are quite low at this time. For this year, the Japanese beetle population was much less than usual. This also holds true for fall webworm, aphids, beech woolly adelgids, and several other insects which are usually quite abundant. Still, the foliage of many trees, especially oaks, is quite holey, most often the result of feeding by cankerworms. However, don’t get overwrought with foliar feeding insects on trees and shrubs at this time, except for newly planted stock. Defoliation at this time of year causes little or no harm to woody plants since they have produced and stored ample amounts of carbohydrate to support next spring’s growth. Active now are aphids on tulip tree and two-spotted spider mite on spruce. Powdery mildew is common on the usual hosts, i.e. lilac, ninebark (Physocarpus), and Phlox.

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

Diseases

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

Brown needle spot, caused by Lecanosticta acicola, on Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris). Mature landscape tree, 30ʺ in diameter, resides in a residential setting with full sun and sandy loam soils. Over the past five years, symptoms of needle cast have appeared, as browning and prematurely shedding needles. Shoot tip dieback is also present and overall the symptoms are more severe in the lower canopy. Lecanosticta was abundant on the submitted needles and was the only pathogen present.

Verticillium wilt, caused by Verticillium dahliae, of Japanese maple (Acer palmatum). Small tree transplanted to a residential landscape three years ago. The tree was planted into a full-sun, south-facing rock garden with weed control fabric and bark mulch. It’s unclear whether the tree was provided with supplemental water. In July, leaves began to brown, curl and prematurely shed from the canopy. Olive-green vascular staining was abundant in the submitted branch segments.

Sporadic canopy dieback of Japanese cryptomeria (Cryptomeria japonica) caused by an armored scale infestation (Lepidosaphes sp.), the spruce spider mite (Oligonychus ununguis) and needle blight from Pestalotiopsis and Cryptomeria. The tree grows in full sun without irrigation and has had symptoms of dieback in previous years. The spider mite infestation was serious and likely facilitated the spread and development of needle blight.

Leaf curling, blotching and a marginal scorch on London planetree (Platanus × acerifolia) caused by sycamore powdery mildew (Erysiphe platani) and a lacebug (Corythucha sp.) infestation. Trees are eight-years-old and were transplanted in April of this year. The full sun setting is on top of a hillside but the trees have mulch rings and have been regularly watered all season. Symptoms first appeared in mid-summer and have intensified. Sycamore powdery mildew causes distortion, curling and dieback on affected leaves (see photo below). While not considered a serious threat to long-term health, any additional stress after transplanting can reduce vigor and lengthen the establishment period. Because powdery mildew fungi occupy the surface of the foliage, early intervention can be very effective in suppressing the disease.

Downy mildew, caused by Plasmopara viburni, on Viburnum. Mature shrub, approximately 10-years-old, growing in a shaded setting with sandy soils near the coast. Downy mildews often prefer cool temperatures and very high humidity, making coastal environments and greenhouses ideal for development. Symptoms appear as dark-colored spots on the surface of the foliage while on the underside, cream-colored masses appear. These represent large groups of spores produced by the pathogen that are readily wind-dispersed. Plasmopara is an oomycete, the same group of organisms that includes Phytophthora and Pythium. These are not true fungi but share many of the same characteristics.

Dieback of American beech (Fagus grandifolia) caused by beech bark disease (BBD; Neonectria spp.). Mature tree (~17ʺ dbh and 70′ tall) that resides on a woodland border in a residential area. BBD has consumed approximately 25% of the circumference on the trunk, extending from the soil line to over 20′ in height. In May, phosphites (w/out Pentra-Bark) were applied as a bark drench to combat the fungus along with dinotefuran to treat the beech scale. Some girdling roots were also pruned and dead wood removed from the canopy. Since early August, the canopy has appeared chlorotic and is prematurely shedding leaves.

Powdery mildew of Leucothoe caused by Erysiphe. The plant has been present at the site for only one to two years. It resides in part-sun, woodland garden with regular irrigation. In July of this year, reddish-brown blotches developed on the foliage (see photo). The distinctive white mycelia produced by powdery mildew fungi was also present. For many wood plants, PM diseases cause only limited damage but on leucothoe, blotching and a complete blight of the foliage can occur. Because it develops late in the season, the long-term damage should be minimal.

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

Insects

Peak Transmission of Mosquito-Borne Illness Extends Through September in Massachusetts:

• Mosquitoes and Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE): EEE virus activity has been detected in Barnstable, Bristol, Essex, Franklin, Hampden, Hampshire, Middlesex, Norfolk, Plymouth, and Worcester counties. Five human cases of EEE have been confirmed this year at the time this was written. For more information about EEE, who is at risk, how to minimize risk and steps to protect ourselves, manage mosquitoes in our landscapes, and for more information about EEE from the MA Department of Public Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, visit UMass Extension’s Hort Notes under “Trouble Maker of the Month”: https://ag.umass.edu/landscape/newsletters/hort-notes/hort-notes-2019-vol-307 .

Caterpillars of Interest:

• Redhumped Caterpillar: Schizura concinna caterpillars develop into a type of prominent moth (Family: Notodontidae) and are sometimes defoliators of ornamental trees and shrubs. Host plants of S. concinna include apple and crabapple, but many woody plant hosts have been reported, comprising of but not limited to: pear, cherry, plum, sweetgum, walnut, redbud, and willow. The caterpillars noted here were caught feeding on redbud on 9/1/2019 in New Salem, MA. The caterpillars of this species are commonly encountered and widespread throughout North America. One generation is produced per year in northern locations, although multiple generations per year have been reported in warmer areas of this species’ range. Eggs can be laid in groups of 25-100 on the undersides of leaves. The caterpillars of the species are spectacular in their color and ornamentation. They have red or black head capsules, are yellow in color with white longitudinal stripes bordered in red down the sides of the body, and possess black projections (tubercles) on each body segment. The fourth body segment counting from the head capsule (not counting the head but just behind it) has a red, pronounced hump with prominent black tubercles that are larger (and longer) than the others present on the body. At rest, these caterpillars may have their rear-end elevated. Caterpillars will feed in groups when first hatched from their egg, often skeletonizing the underside of leaves initially. As the caterpillars grow in size, they are capable of consuming entire leaves. They often feed on the same limb/branch together in a group, stripping everything except leaf veins. These larvae are typically more problematic on smaller trees, whereas larger trees may not be extensively impacted. Caterpillars mature by August or September and drop to the ground. Pupae are shiny and reddish-brown in color and may be enclosed within a silken cocoon found in the soil. Adult moths are comparatively drab and dull when considered next to the caterpillars of this species; moths are light gray to brown in color with some white markings. Many parasitic wasps and tachinid fly species have been reported as natural enemies of this caterpillar. Predatory insects have also been reported.

• Yellow-Necked Caterpillar: the larvae of Datana ministra are black with four yellow stripes down each side and develop into moths as adults. They are covered sparsely with white hairs. A spot behind the head, referred to as the prothoracic plate, is orange. There are four related Datana spp. with similar caterpillars, but they vary in color, “hairiness”, and host preference. The yellow-necked caterpillar is known from apple, oak, birch, blueberry, willow, and other woody shrubs and trees. These particular caterpillars were viewed on American beech in Goshen, MA on 9/1/2019. Reportedly, throughout the Northeast this species and other Datana spp. numbers have been declining. Reports implicate a tachinid parasitoid fly (Compsilura concinnata) introduced from Europe in the early days (1906) in the fight against gypsy moth. Therefore, if you see these caterpillars feeding in your landscape, consider this: 1) at this time, in mature plantings, a little defoliation will not drastically harm the host as most energy stores have already been made for the season and 2) Datana ministra and related, native species could use a break.

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 .

• Brown Marmorated Stink Bug: (Halyomorpha halys; BMSB) is a non-native insect first detected in the United States in 1998 in Allentown, PA. This insect was accidentally introduced from Asia. It was first detected in MA in 2007. It has since been reported in multiple counties of MA, but at this time, BMSB is not yet a significant pest of agricultural crops in Massachusetts as it has been in other areas of the United States. BMSB attacks a broad variety of plants, including fruit crops and shade trees. Host plants include but are not limited to: peach, apple, pear, maples, dogwoods, butterfly bush, and vegetable crops. A more comprehensive list of hosts may be found here: https://www.stopbmsb.org/where-is-bmsb/host-plants/ . An adult brown marmorated stink bug was observed feeding on an Amur maple (Acer ginnala) samara in Amherst, MA on 9/3/2019. Brown marmorated stink bugs can be distinguished from native stink bugs by the white bands on the antennae and alternating white and dark bands at the rear edge of the abdomen. Adults emerge around April from their overwintering locations. Females can lay approximately 500 eggs during their lifetime, in clusters of 30 eggs or so at a time, roughly from June-August. Eggs hatch and the immature insects (the nymphs) undergo 5 instars. Adults can be nuisance insects as they become fall home invaders, roughly by the end of September and into October, seeking sheltered locations to overwinter.

More information about BMSB can be found at: https://www.massnrc.org/pests/pestFAQsheets/brownmarmoratedstinkbug.html .

• Deer Tick/Blacklegged Tick: Check out the archived FREE TickTalk with TickReport webinars available here:https://ag.umass.edu/landscape/education-events/webinars . The next live webinar will be held on October 9, 2019 with Dr. Stephen Rich of the UMass Laboratory of Medical Zoology. Previous webinars including information about deer ticks and associated diseases, American dog ticks and lone star ticks and associated diseases, ticks and personal protection, and updates from the Laboratory of Medical Zoology are archived at the link above.

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 .

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: (Agrilus planipennis, EAB) 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 .

• Fall Home-Invading Insects: Various insects, such as ladybugs, boxelder bugs, seedbugs, and stink bugs will begin to seek overwintering shelters in warm places, such as homes, throughout the next couple of months. While such invaders do not cause any measurable structural damage, they can become a nuisance, especially when they are present in large numbers. While the invasion has not yet begun, if you are not willing to share your home with such insects, now should be the time to repair torn window screens, repair gaps around windows and doors, and sure up any other gaps through which they might enter the home.

• Fall Webworm: Hyphantria cunea is native to North America and Mexico. It is now considered a world-wide pest, as it has spread throughout much of Europe and Asia. (For example, it was introduced accidentally into Hungary from North America in the 1940’s.) Hosts include nearly all shade, fruit, and ornamental trees except conifers. In the USA, at least 88 species of trees are hosts for these insects, while in Europe at least 230 species are impacted. In the past history of this pest, it was once thought that the fall webworm was a two-species complex. It is now thought that H. cunea has two color morphs – one black headed and one red headed. These two color forms differ not only in the coloration of the caterpillars and the adults, but also in their behaviors. Caterpillars may go through at least 11 molts, each stage occurring within a silken web they produce over the host. When alarmed, all caterpillars in the group will move in unison in jerking motions that may be a mechanism for self-defense. Depending upon the location and climate, 1-4 generations of fall webworm can occur per year. Fall webworm adult moths lay eggs on the underside of the leaves of host plants in the spring. These eggs hatch in late June or early July depending on climate. Young larvae feed together in groups on the undersides of leaves, first skeletonizing the leaf and then enveloping other leaves and eventually entire branches within their webs. Webs are typically found on the terminal ends of branches. All caterpillar activity occurs within this tent, which becomes filled with leaf fragments, cast skins, and frass. Fully grown larvae then wander from the webs and pupate in protected areas such as the leaf litter where they will remain for the winter. Adult fall webworm moths emerge the following spring/early summer to start the cycle over again. 50+ species of parasites and 36+ species of predators are known to attack fall webworm in North America. Fall webworms typically do not cause extensive damage to their hosts, but on occasion, this can occur. Nests may be an aesthetic issue for some. If in reach, small fall webworm webs may be pruned out of trees and shrubs and destroyed. Do not set fire to H. cunea webs when they are still attached to the host plant.

• Hickory Tussock Moth: Lophocampa caryae is native to southern Canada and the northeastern United States. There is one generation per year. Overwintering occurs as a pupa inside a fuzzy, oval shaped cocoon. Adult moths emerge approximately in May and their presence can continue into July. Females will lay clusters of 100+ eggs together on the underside of leaves. Females of this species can fly, however they have been called weak fliers due to their large size. When first hatched from their eggs, the young caterpillars will feed gregariously in a group, eventually dispersing and heading out on their own to forage. Caterpillar maturity can take up to three months and color changes occur during this time. These caterpillars are essentially white with some black markings and a black head capsule. They are very hairy, and should not be handled with bare hands as many can have skin irritation or rashes (dermatitis) as a result of interacting with hickory tussock moth hairs. By late September, the caterpillars will create their oval, fuzzy cocoons hidden in the leaf litter where they will again overwinter. Hosts whose leaves are fed upon by these caterpillars include but are not limited to hickory, walnut, butternut, linden, apple, basswood, birch, elm, black locust, and aspen. Maple and oak have also been reportedly fed upon by this insect. Several wasp species are parasitoids of hickory tussock moth caterpillars.

• 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 .

• Tuliptree Aphid: Illinoia liriodendri is a species of aphid associated with the tuliptree, wherever it is grown. The tuliptree aphid was seen feeding on the undersides of leaves on 7/25/19 and again on 8/21/19 in Amherst, MA.Depending upon local temperatures, these aphids may be present from mid-June through early fall. Large populations can develop by late summer. Some leaves, especially those in the outer canopy, may turn brown or yellow and drop from infested trees prematurely. The most significant impact these aphids can have is typically the resulting honeydew, or sugary excrement, which may be present in excessive amounts and coat leaves and branches, leading to sooty mold growth. This honeydew may also make a mess of anything beneath the tree. Wingless adults are approximately 1/8 inch in length, oval, and can range in color from pale green to yellow. There are several generations per year. This is a native insect. Management is typically not necessary, as this insect does not significantly impact the overall health of its host. Tuliptree aphids also have plenty of natural enemies, such as ladybeetles and parasites.

• Viburnum Leaf Beetle: Pyrrhalta viburni is a beetle in the family Chrysomelidae that is native to Europe, but was found in Massachusetts in 2004. In Amherst, MA on 7/9/19 and again on 7/24/19, adult Viburnum leaf beetles were found mating, feeding, and laying eggs at this location. Females will lay their eggs in pits they chew at the ends of twigs. Eggs overwinter. Adults may also migrate to previously not yet infested plants. Feeding damage from adult Viburnum leaf beetle was observed on 8/15/2019 in Goshen, MA on native Viburnum in a natural setting. This beetle feeds exclusively on many different species of Viburnum, which includes, but is not limited to, susceptible plants such as V. dentatum, V. nudum, V. opulus, V. propinquum, and V. rafinesquianum. Some Viburnum have been observed to have varying levels of resistance to this insect, including but not limited to V. bodnantense, V. carlesii, V. davidii, V. plicatum, V. rhytidophyllum, V. setigerum, and V. sieboldii. More information about Viburnum leaf beetle may be found at http://www.hort.cornell.edu/vlb/ .

• Yellowjackets: (Vespula spp.and Dolichovespula spp.) Often times, when we think that we have been “stung by a bee” the true culprit is some type of yellowjacket. Yellowjackets frequently interact with humans at the end of the summer due to a shift in their foraging behaviors. Early in the season, they can act as beneficial insects as they are predators of many pest insects such as caterpillars. These protein resources can be useful to them when rearing their young. Later in the season, they may switch to foods high in carbohydrates or sugars, including nectar and honeydew, but also some of our favorite items to pack during outdoor picnics or cookouts (soda and other sugary treats).

Unlike European honeybees (Apis mellifera), yellowjackets are capable of stinging multiple times (multiple stings from a single individual). This includes aerial yellowjackets such as the baldfaced hornet and other species in the genus Dolichovespula spp. European honeybees (the workers) can only sting once due to the fact that they have a barbed stinger/ovipositor. This causes the ovipositor to become stuck in the skin, tearing this structure free from the abdomen of the honeybee, thus killing the honeybee. Honeybees are often not aggressive and only attack when otherwise threatened. This may not be the case for yellowjackets.

Be on the lookout for their nests, and avoid. Baldfaced hornets and other aerial yellowjackets make aerial nests that are nearly completely covered with a papery shell (except for an opening for entrance/exit of the nest). These can be found in trees and shrubs located up off the ground. Some yellowjackets will also create subterranean nests or nest in cavities of trees, decayed stumps, or associated with buildings. If nests are in areas where these insects are unlikely to interact with humans, they can be left alone. These nests are not used again the following season, and by the first couple of hard frosts, all individuals will be gone. However, if they are close to homes/doorways, walkways, benches, etc. (high traffic areas) management may be necessary, especially if the homeowner/individuals using the property are allergic to stings.

Attempts to remove yellowjacket or baldfaced hornet nests should be made at night, or at least very early or very late in the day when temperatures are still cool, activity by the yellowjackets is likely to be low, and the individuals are likely to still be contained (largely) within the nest. Note that although the insects may not be terribly active, any disturbance to the nest/colony will change that. Wear protective clothing (long sleeves and pants tight around wrists and ankles and close-toed shoes or boots, at minimum). Many insecticides are labelled for use against yellowjackets and baldfaced hornets, including products that can be shot into the opening of the nest from many feet away. Note that agitated yellowjackets may leave the nest, looking for the source of aggravation (you), and will be ready to sting. Use extreme caution, and individuals who are allergic to stings should not attempt this. Hire a professional. Again, if the nest is in a location where interaction with people is unlikely, consider leaving it alone until a few hard frosts have hit, at which time the nest can be removed if desired.

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

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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

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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.