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Landscape Message: May 3, 2019

May 3, 2019
Issue: 
6

Why Records?

Record-keeping is a useful, practical skill that benefits 4-H youth. The 4-H Records Program supports youth development of this skill through the three main records components:

  • Summary Record: 4-H youth learn how to track their participation in community service, leadership, and youth development experiences, as well as keep track of awards and communication experiences in their summary record.
  • Project Record: Keeping project records is intended to be meaningful for youth. They are encouraged to learn how to set, achieve, and reflect on personal goals that matter to them and are related to their 4-H projects. The project record also involves tracking project-related activities and expenses throughout the 4-H year.
  • 4-H Story: Youth are asked to share a narrative of their 4-H experience during the project year to reflect on the impacts of 4-H in their life and share key takeaways and insights from the year.

Ideally, in October, as soon as records have been submitted from the previous year, youth begin working on identifying projects and setting goals for their current 4-H year. Maintaining records is a practice that is most meaningful when considered a yearlong process. Keeping records is intended to be woven into the fabric of the project work itself.

Records are submitted to club leaders and county educators at the end of October for the previous 4-H year. These records are evaluated according to a holistic scoring rubric and are awarded ribbons according to the Danish system. At the county level, trained records judges evaluate these record books according to the scoring rubric. County educators then evaluate the scoring sheets and award Danish ribbons and project medals. Some youth will be invited to submit their record books to a state level Records contest.

Records Scoring Rubric

The Records scoring rubric is a tool. We are giving it to you to help you to better understand how to develop your record book throughout the year. Please read through it and talk about it with your parent or guardian, your club leader, or your County UMass Extension 4-H Educator as you get started setting your goals and working on your project. There are a lot of words squished onto one page, which might feel overwhelming at first. Once you start to use the rubric as part of your record keeping process while you work on your projects, though, it will start to make more and more sense. Imagine how much better a carpenter gets over time as they use their measuring and cutting tools. The more you use this rubric, the more useful it will be in helping you to reach your goals. It is your tool, and the evaluators borrow it at the end of the 4-H year to help them to better understand how well you met your goals and to communicate with you.

The scoring rubric is meant to be given to youth, their families, and club volunteers at the start of the 4-H year. Scoring record books should be consistent and the expectations clearly defined at the start of the process. The youth are encouraged to use the rubric to help them shape the development of their record books throughout the year.

Rubric Format and Scoring

Page 1 of the rubric is broken into Categories (listed vertically) that are scored by Levels
(listed horizontally across the top).

  • There are three distinct scoring levels: “Revving your Engine,” “On Your Way,” and “You’re There!” and each category is scored holistically according to these levels.
  • A column is provided to indicate if a component is completely missing from the record book.
  • A comments column is provided all the way to the right for evaluator comments.
  • The “Above and Beyond” column to the left provides open space for an evaluator to highlight an area of particular strength, beyond what is expected of the 4-H project. This area is to be reserved for truly notable features of the project record and there is no expectation that it be used by evaluators. In fact, the expectation is that it ONLY be used when an evaluator was particularly “wowed” by the project scope or depth of learning and reflection as evidenced in the submitted record book. Appropriate use of this column will be emphasized in evaluator and user training sessions.

Page 2 of the scoring rubric is meant for evaluator feedback to the youth member and is broken into two areas: “Way to Go!” and “Ways to Grow”. Both areas are meant to be positive in tone with the goal of providing useful information to help youth recognize their own strengths, of which they may or may not already be aware, as well as motivate them to want to learn and grow.

  • Way to Go!”: Evaluators are encouraged to identify extremely specific examples of strengths in the record book rather than providing vague comments that reflect value- judgments. For example, “You gave a lot of thought to how much time it would take to train your dog to stop pulling on their leash and I could see the progress through the year in how clearly you described it in your project record” instead of “Great project record!”
  • “Ways to Grow”: This area is intended for focus on one or two growth areas for the youth member to think about. These should be considered carefully because this is an opportunity to challenge youth in appropriate ways. As with positive comments, these suggestions should be kept as judgment-free as possible and be grounded in evidence from the record book. For example, “You listed in your 4-H Story that you learned a lot of skills this year. I was curious to know more about which skills you learned and how you learned them. Next year, consider adding these kinds of details to your story” instead of “Your 4-H Story lacked detail”.

For equity, each record book should be evaluated independently by two evaluators. If the scoring levels in any category are discrepant by more than one level, the county educator will make the final score determination.

All final ribbon rankings and awards are determined by the county educator.

Signature Page Instructions

Your record book is a way for you to record all of your experiences for the year and the actions you took to complete your 4-H projects and reflect on what you learned. You are encouraged to talk with a lot of people as you work on your project and fill in your record book because that is an important part of your learning process.

The pages you are submitting should reflect your work and ideas, not someone else’s. By signing the signature page, you are agreeing that you are the person who completed the record book.

After you sign your record book, ask your parent or guardian and club leader to sign it too, confirming they have looked through the book and agree the work is yours, before you submit it to your regional 4-H Office in October.

Summary Record

The summary record is the area where you will track all your activity for the year, both inside and outside of 4-H. It can be very helpful to list all your experience in one place. It can help you reflect on your learning, and it can be very helpful for you when you need to write a resume, or go to a job interview or apply to college.

When you submit your record book this year, you should also include all summary records from your previous 4-H years.

Name: Enter your first and last name.

Age: Write the age you were or will be on 1/1 of the current 4-H year.

Main Club: Even if you will be listing projects here that you did in a different club, write the name of your main 4-H club here.

Number of Years in 4-H: Enter the number of years you have been a 4-H member, including this year.

Year (include specific date if applicable): Record the date that you engaged in the activity. This could be a month and a year, just a year, or a specific date (if it was a one-time experience like a workshop or fair).

Topic/Title: Enter a title for the activity or experience.

Description: Provide a very brief description of the topic/title. This can be short phrases rather than sentences.

Category: Check off one or more categories for each entry. For community service work, please enter the number of hours rather than an “x”. You may also enter a number of hours rather than an “x” for any of the other categories if that is applicable. Ask your leader or regional educator if you have a question about which category or categories to use for a particular 4-H activity or experience.

  • Project—check this box when listing a 4-H project you completed.
  • Community Service—enter the number of hours you engaged in community service in this box. This community service may have been on your own, with your club, or with your school. If you completed a community service project, then you should check the Project box instead.
  • Leadership—check this box if you participated in a leadership opportunity (club officer, team captain, etc.). If this leadership experience is related to a leadership project you completed this year, then you should check the Project box instead.
  • Communication Skills—check this box for a public speaking event or other communications activity (Visual Presentations, writing for the school or local paper, creating a blog, etc.)
  • Youth Development—check this box if the activity developed you as a whole person (national leadership conferences, contests, or workshops).
  • Awards & Achievement—check this box for awards and recognition you received.

Goal Setting and Reflection (Choice 1)

You may have multiple goals you want to achieve this year for each project. You may either list all your goals on one form or use a different form for each goal.

You will revisit and revise this form all year long because sometimes what you originally thought might help you reach a goal turns out not to work as well as you thought, and you need to change your action steps. This is to be expected, so don’t worry! Recognizing when things don’t work out as you thought and being able to figure out how to do something differently shows that you are learning and growing.

Instructions for filling in the Goals form:

  • Name: Enter your first and last name.
  • Club Name: Enter the name of the club. If you are in multiple clubs, this should be filled in using the club that is associated with your project.
  • Project: Enter the name of your 4-H project.
  • Age on 1/1: Enter how old you were or will be on January 1st of the current 4-H year. If you fill this out in the Fall for the current 4-H year, as recommended, ask yourself, “How old will I be this January?”
  • 4-H Year: Enter the 4-H year you are working on this project. The 4-H year runs from October 15th through September 30th, so you should enter something like “2022-2023” in this box.
  • # of Years in Project: Write the number of years you have been working on this type of 4-H project. This may be the same as the number of years you have been in 4-H, or it may be different.
  • Goal(s) Box: Depending on your project, you may have one goal or multiple goals. You may use the same Goal Setting & Reflection sheet for multiple goals or print additional sheets if you would like to list one goal per sheet. Using multiple sheets will leave you room to write about the steps you will take to achieve each goal and reflect on how well you did in reaching each goal. Using one form to list all goals will keep them in one place. Decide which is easiest for you.
    Make a clear statement of each goal. Goals should really matter to you personally. They should be stated in a straightforward way and reflect goals that are realistic at this time in your life. Use positive language and state what you will do instead of what you will not do. Include a general timeframe for achieving the goal. A goal may take you the entire 4-H year, or it might be the first step in a series of goals and will be accomplished within a few weeks or months so that you can move onto another, related goal. Include your timeline in your goal statement. You can look at the R.O.A.D. M.A.P.S. sheet or Writing S.M.A.R.T. Goals sheet for help on writing your goals.

Instructions for the Goal Reflection Sheet:

Name: Enter your first and last name.

Project: Enter the name of your project.

Goal(s) Reflection Box:

What have you learned?

In this area, write about how well you met your goal(s). Include details about what was successful, what you learned, and write about what you might do differently next time. If you achieved your goal(s), you could use this space to write about what you want to do next based on what you learned. This is also an area you can use to write about changes you made to your action steps along the way. If you tried something and it did not work, you can write about that here. Or, if you learned there were additional steps you needed to take, you can describe those here as well.
 

Goals & Project Planning (Choice 2)

You may have multiple goals you want to achieve this year for each project. You may either list all your goals on one form or use a different form for each goal.

You will revisit and revise this form all year long because sometimes what you originally thought might help you reach a goal turns out not to work as well as you thought, and you need to change your action steps. This is to be expected, so don’t worry! Recognizing when things don’t work out as you thought and being able to figure out how to do something differently shows that you are learning and growing.

Instructions for filling in the Goals form:

  • Name: Enter your first and last name.
  • Project: Enter the name of your 4-H project.
  • Club Name: Enter the name of the club. If you are in multiple clubs, this should be filled in using the club that is associated with your project.
  • 4-H Year: Enter the 4-H year you are working on this project. The 4-H year runs from October 15th through September 30th, so you should enter something like “2022-2023” in this box.
  • Age on 1/1: Enter how old you were or will be on January 1st of the current 4-H year. If you fill this out in the Fall for the current 4-H year, as recommended, ask yourself, “How old will I be this January?”
  • # of Years in Project: Write the number of years you have been working on this type of 4-H project. This may be the same as the number of years you have been in 4-H, or it may be different.
  • Project Goals Box: Depending on your project, you may have one goal or multiple goals. You may use the same Goal Setting & Project Planning sheet for multiple goals or print additional sheets if you would like to list one goal per sheet. Using multiple sheets will leave you more room to write about and reflect on each goal. Using one form to list all goals will keep them in one place. Decide which is easiest for you.

    Fall, at the start of the 4-H year, is a great time to set your project goals. Make a clear statement of each goal. Goals should really matter to you personally. They should be stated in a straightforward way and reflect goals that are realistic at this time in your life. Use positive language and state what you will do instead of what you will not do. Include a general timeframe for achieving the goal. A goal may take you the entire 4-H year, or it might be the first step in a series of goals and will be accomplished within a few weeks or months so that you can move onto another, related goal. Include your timeline in your goal statement. You can look at the R.O.A.D. M.A.P.S. sheet or Writing S.M.A.R.T. Goals sheet for help on writing your goals.
  • Mid-year Project Check-in
    During the winter months, from January through March, you are probably well into work on your project. This is an important time to think about how it is going. Add some notes about this in this area on the form. Then, adjust your goals if needed.
  • Project Reflection
    Most of the time, it is very helpful to think about what went well and what didn’t go as expected with a project. This is the area to write about what you have learned from your project and what you might do next time.

4-H Project Record Form

This form is used to track all activity related to your project throughout the year and you should be using it regularly. Each time you conduct research or gather materials related to your project, and when you create something using that research or materials, write it down on a separate line on the form. You may use as many project record sheets as you need. If you are completing a paper copy, you may print out multiple copies of the second page of the form, or you may download extra project record fillable forms from the MA 4-H website as needed. If you use extra pages, insert them in the requested order in your record book.

  • Name: Enter your first and last name.
  • Age: Enter how old you were or will be on January 1st of the current 4-H year. If you fill this out in the Fall for the current 4-H year, as recommended, ask yourself, “How old will I be this January?”
  • Project Title: Enter the name of your project.
  • 4-H Year: Enter the 4-H year you are working on this project. The 4-H year runs from October 15th through September 30th, so you should enter something like “2022-2023” in this box.
  • Check Box: Check this box and include a photo or drawing of your project in your supplemental materials at the end of your record book.
  • Date: Depending on your project, some months may be busier than others. Write the day, month and year.

Example: 10/16/2022

  • TIP: Keep a calendar to track your time and activities so it is all in one place when you sit down to update your records. A folder or envelope for receipts and other documents is also helpful.
  • Time Spent: How much time did you spend completing this activity for your project on this day? It is important to track time along the way, as you complete the project. It is very difficult to remember how much time you spent on a particular day if you do not write it down right away. Once you get in the habit of paying attention to time and writing it down, it will become a regular routine, and it is so interesting at the end of the year to know how much time you spent on your project!
  • Activity: Include a brief, detailed description of what you did. There is limited space for entering this information. Try and be brief but also detailed. With practice, most descriptions can hold a lot of information and fit into the allotted space. If, however, you had a particularly complex activity related to your project, you can use a second description box to keep your notes on this entry. If you find you need more than two spaces, think about revising what you have written to make it shorter instead of using a third description box.
  • Financial: Check this box if you either spent money on materials or classes, or if someone donated something to you for use in your project that has a monetary value. Ask yourself, did I use something in today’s project work that cost somebody money? If you check this box, you also need to enter this item on your 4-H Financial Record form. See directions for the financial form for more details.
  • Note: There may be certain activities that are more easily tracked by the week or month, and those can be written together on one line (For example, with a dog project, maybe you spent one hour every day of the month of November training your dog to “watch me”. The activity description for this would be the same, so it would be repetitive to write that activity in your project log 30 times. Therefore, you may write the date as 11/1-11/30/2022, and then describe the activity. This only works, though, in cases where the description would be exactly the same. If you only worked two weeks on training your dog to “watch me” and then spent two weeks training your dog to go to their “bed”, you would have two separate lines.)

4-H Financial Record

This section helps you to see how much money you spent or possibly made on your 4-H project this year.

Instructions to complete:

  • Name: Enter your first and last name.
  • Club: Name of club you are enrolled in that is related to this project.
  • Project: Enter the title of your project.
  • Project Check Box: If you are working with an animal for your project, check whether you own your own animal, are leasing the animal from someone else, or if you are borrowing someone else’s animal. The reason we ask you to include this information is because there are different expenses related to leasing verses owning an animal. In addition, there is a box to check if you did not work with an animal for this project.
  • Date: Put the date you purchased the project item(s) or animal(s) for this 4-H year or the date you earned income from your project.
  • Description: You can list the item you purchased or sold.
  • This section also helps you keep track of what materials, supplies and equipment you purchased or used for your project and what it cost to use. You should also include costs of maintenance and repairs, entry fees for shows, and anything else related to your project that cost you or someone else money.
  • Expenses: Remember, you need to keep track of both money that comes out of your pocket for this project, as well as the value of goods and services that are donated to you. These are tracked in different columns on the form.
    • Purchase Amount - List in this column the dollar amount you personally spent on this item.
    • Materials Donation – This column is for items donated to you such as cloth, cooking supplies, craft materials and tools, or items used for your project animal (animal care products, feed, etc.). These are also considered expenses because they cost somebody money. Do your best to estimate the cost of each of these materials. If you are borrowing a tool that you return when you are done, you do not need to include it as an expense, unless you paid rent to borrow it.
  • Income: This column is for any money that you made on your project such as fair premiums, sale of crafts, clothing, or animals. Also include income if you were paid as part of your project.
  • Balance: In this column, you will keep a running total of expenses & income throughout the 4-H project year so you will know if you made or lost money on your project. It is possible to have a negative number in the balance column.
    If you have a negative number in the balance column, it means this project cost you more money than you earned completing it. Don’t worry, though! Many 4-H projects will reflect a negative balance because you may not have had money-making in mind when you chose your project. Even if you were not intending to make money on your project, it is still a good idea to learn the costs associated with your projects.


NOTE: You may develop your own system of financial record-keeping that suits your particular project (Excel spreadsheet, QuickBooks report, etc.). If this is the case, you may choose to submit those record details instead of this financial form. In this case, fill in the top information on the 4-H Financial Record form, and under the date/description area, write “see attached details”. Submit both the 4-H financial record form and your alternate financial record when you turn in your records.

4-H Animal Veterinary Care Record

If you are working with an animal, it is very important to keep track of their veterinary care. If you are leasing or borrowing an animal for your project, you may not know all the information you need in order to keep very detailed vet records though you can talk to the animal owner to see if they will share any of this information with you. The more you know, the more you can learn what is involved in properly caring for that breed of animal.

Instructions to complete

  • Name: Enter your first and last name.
  • Club: Name of club you are enrolled in that is related to this project.
  • Project: Enter the title of your project.
  • Animal Name: Enter the animal’s name here. If you are working with more than one animal for this project, use a separate veterinary care record sheet for each animal.
  • Animal Breed: Enter the breed of the animal you are working with.
  • Animal Age/Birthdate: Enter the age of the animal you are working with. If you know it’s exact birthday, enter that information as well.
  • Project Starting Weight: Enter the date you first started working with this animal and its weight at the start of your project.
  • Name and Phone Number of Veterinarian: Enter the full name and phone number of the veterinarian who provides regular care for your animal. If the animal is seen by an emergency veterinarian at some point throughout the year, note that vet’s name and phone number in the “notes” area of this form, next to the date when they were seen.
  • Project Ending Weight: Enter the date you stopped working with this animal for this 4-H project and its weight on that ending date.
  • Date: Enter the date you took your animal to the vet or called the vet with a question about your animal.
  • Weight: How much did your animal weigh on this visit to the vet? If you called rather than visited the vet on this day, try to weigh your animal yourself and enter the weight on the form.
  • Reason for Call/Visit: Very briefly sate the reason you needed to contact a veterinarian. For example, “stopped eating and drinking yesterday” or “lame in back left leg”.
  • Notes: Write down the outcomes of the call or visit, next steps you need to follow up on, or other important information, like names and phone numbers, medications, etc.

NOTE: If there were expenses for this vet visit, including an office visit fee or medications, be sure to enter those on your financial record form.

4-H Animal Weight Tracker

Many animal projects require you to keep track of your animal’s weight. This is particularly important for market animal projects, where part of the goal of the project is weight gain. You may also choose to use this form for other types of animal projects, depending on your project goals.

Instructions to complete

  • Name: Enter your first and last name.
  • Club: Name of club you are enrolled in that is related to this project.
  • Project: Enter the title of your project.
  • Animal Name: Enter the animal’s name here. If you are working with more than one animal for this project, use a separate veterinary care record sheet for each animal.
  • Animal Breed: Enter the breed of the animal you are working with.
  • Animal Age/Birthdate: Enter the age of the animal you are working with. If you know it’s exact birthday, enter that information as well.
  • Project Starting Weight: Enter the date you first started working with this animal and its weight at the start of your project.
  • Feed: Enter the amount and type of feed you give your animal each day.
  • Project Ending Weight: Enter the date you stopped working with this animal for this 4-H project and its weight on that ending date.
  • Date: Enter the date you weighed your animal.
  • Weight: How much did your animal weigh on this day?
  • Weight Change (+/-): Calculate the weight change by subtracting the previous weight from the current weight. If you get a positive number, that means the animal gained that amount of weight. If you get a negative number, it means your animal lost weight.
  • Notes: Write down information you want to remember regarding the impact of circumstances on weight gain or loss. For example, maybe your animal was ill and that would explain weight loss. Or maybe you increased their food and that prompted a larger than normal weight gain.

4-H Story

What made your 4-H year memorable? Your 4-H story is a way to let the judges know how your projects and experiences have had an impact on you or to elaborate on your experiences in more detail. It should convey what you have learned by participating in 4-H. Think about the ways 4-H has impacted you, your family, and/or others in your community. Your 4-H story should include personal reactions and feelings that could not be placed in the Summary Record or Project Record forms.

Please do not simply tell us again about all of your activities—that is what the summary and project records accomplish. Instead, be creative in writing about your 4-H Story. Find a unique way to introduce your story and capture the readers' attention. You can also have a central theme or focus on an obstacle you may have overcome throughout the year.
A great way to better understand the spirit of the 4-H story is to share yours with other 4-Hers and ask to see theirs. It is especially helpful to learn from older 4-H members by reading their stories.

Correct grammar and spelling make it easy for your reader to understand the story you are telling. Remember to check errors and ask your leader, guardian or parent, or a friend to help you find mistakes and fix them before submitting your final 4-H story.

  • Name: Enter your first and last name.
  • Project Title: Enter the name of your project.
  • 4-H Year: Enter the 4-H year you are working on this project. The 4-H year runs from October 15th through September 30th, so you should enter something like “2022-2023” in this box.
  • Club Name: Enter the name of your primary 4-H club.
  • Age on 1/1: Enter how old you were on January 1st of this 4-H year.
  • # of Years in 4-H: Enter the number of years you have been in 4-H, including this year.
  • 4-H Story Box: Write your story here. You may either print out additional sheets as needed, or, if it is easier, you may print and attach a Word document or Google document that is typed and double-spaced, using 12-point Arial or Helvetica font. If you use this alternative format, be sure to include all the information that is requested at the top of the My 4-H Story form.

NOTE: There are so many possible ways to tell your story! You may also talk with your 4-H educator if you wish to tell your story through a method other than a written essay format (examples: creating a movie or animation, audio recording, visual display). Alternate plans require approval at the regional level in advance.

Supplemental Materials

The forms included in your Record Book tell the story of your 4-H year. In addition, you are invited to submit up to five pages of additional materials to help tell this story. Think carefully about which materials belong as part of the record of your 4-H year. This could include a drawing or photograph of your project (highly recommended).

You might also choose to include additional drawings or photos. Captions describing what is happening in these pictures is very helpful for others who look at your record book and will also be helpful to you in future years when you look back at all your past record books.

If you have information relevant to your project, such as verification forms, an animal ancestry diagram, animal show record, or other items, you may choose to include those as well. In addition, if you were honored at an event or were included in a newspaper article, you might decide to include those as supplemental materials.

You are asked to limit your supplemental materials to no more than five pages. If you submit more than five pages, the records judges will only look at the first five pages.

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 October through December. The next message will be posted on December 1. To receive immediate notification when the next Landscape Message update is posted, be sure to join our e-mail list.

How are we doing? Let us know in the 2017 Landscape Message Survey... Please help us better understand how you use the Landscape Message by taking our 2017 survey, it will take just a few minutes of your time.  Your input is valuable and will be used to improve the Landscape Message and other educational resources from UMass Extension. To start, visit https://goo.gl/forms/8dUblpB6Erd7FvK22. Thanks in advance for your participation!

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 November 1. Total accumulated growing degree days (GDD) represent the heating units above a 50° F baseline temperature collected via our instruments for the 2017 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

2017 Total

Sun

Shade

Cape Cod

289.5

2760

55

51

7.52

12:00 PM 11/1

Southeast

215

2360

54

52

5.60

4:40 PM 11/1

North Shore

307

2850

50

47

4.52

9:20 AM 11/1

East

295

3066.5

56

55

6.21

5:00 PM 11/1

Metro West

209

2664.5

49

47

5.82

5:35 AM 11/1

Central

231

2724

50

47

7.71

3:00 PM 11/1

Pioneer Valley

238

2861

60

59

8.39

11:00 AM 11/1

Berkshires

234

2529

47

46

6.19

10:00 AM 11/1

AVERAGE

252

2727

53

51

6.50

-

n/a = information not available

Drought Status: Approximately 90% of Massachusetts is not under official drought status at this time.  The 10% still classified as 'Abnormally Dry' includes all of Essex county and approximately 1/3 of Middlesex county.  For more information see http://droughtmonitor.unl.edu/CurrentMap/StateDroughtMonitor.aspx?MA

Regional Notes

Cape Cod Region (Barnstable)

General Conditions: The average temperature from October 4 - November 1 was 61° F with a high of 78° F on October 5 and a low of 36° F on November 1. Isolated areas of light frost (31° F) occurred on the morning of November 1; however, the majority of Cape Cod has not experienced a frost as of yet. Overall conditions have been warmer than usual. During the period 7.52 inches of precipitation fell. Approximately 4.5 inches fell in one precipitation event on October 25 adding to the numerous extreme precipitation events recorded this year. On October 30 a storm brought high winds to the area with a couple gusts recorded at over 90 mph. This storm resulted in widespread downed limbs and in several cases downed trees leading to thousands of power outages. The storm removed many of the leaves, primarily maples, that were starting to change color. Topsoil moisture and subsoil moisture conditions are adequate to excessive on poor draining soils. Lawns are enjoying the mild conditions and are actively growing.

Pests/Problems: There is little to report at this time for insect pests. Foliar diseases of herbaceous and woody plants have benefited from the mild conditions and ample moisture. Fruiting bodies (mushrooms & conks) of tree decay fungi like Armillaria, Ganoderma and others are visible. Winter annuals are growing rapidly and some quick growing species like hairy bittercress (Cardamine hirsuta) are flowering. Squirrels and other rodents are building and finding nesting sites for winter. Deer tick (Black legged tick) adults are very active.

Southeast Region (Hanson)

General Conditions: This past October was the second warmest October on record. In southeastern MA, it was also dry. As of October 24, the MA Drought Monitor, https://www.drought.gov/drought/states/massachusetts, listed southeastern MA as “abnormally dry”. Trees and other plants were showing drought stress and soils were powdery. Rain came in over Oct. 25-26 and Hanson received 3.5 inches of much-needed rain. High winds, humidity and warm weather were the norm for that storm. Another rain event came in on October 29-30 and brought 2.10 inches of rain to the Hanson area. Extremely high wind gusts were also prevalent over that time bringing down trees, tree limbs and loss of power in many communities. All together, Hanson received 5.6 inches of rain for the month of October. More rain is needed as plants go into dormancy and hopefully the drought monitor will indicate a change for the better.

Hanson has not experienced a killing frost to date (Nov.1) and impatiens, geraniums, coleus, and sweet peppers are still looking good. The following plants remain in bloom: landscape roses, hardy Chrysanthemums like ‘Red October’, native asters, Aconitum sp., Corydalis lutea, Lamium, Sedum ‘Autumn Joy’, and one Phlox paniculata.

Like last year, and perhaps even worse than last year is the lack of display of vibrant fall foliage color in many SE MA communities. Last year’s drought and this year’s late season dry weather combined with defoliation or damage by caterpillars two years in a row has certainly taken a toll on many trees. The foliage of many trees turned brown and/or dropped prematurely and the high winds over Oct. 29-30, dropped many more leaves. The recent rains have also helped lawns in their drought recovery, although there have been reports of grubs and cutworms found in lawns that were not recovering. The warm fall has also encouraged conditions for a rebloom of some Forsythia, Rhododendron and Abeliophyllum distichum. Holly set appears to be very good this year with numerous red berries on many different types of female hollies. Remind clients that in many MA areas, it is not too late to plant spring blooming bulbs and garlic.

Hanson recorded 4,425 GDD (Growing Degree Days), base 40.

Pests/Problems: Lace bugs remain active on Rhododendron, Azalea, and Pieris. Monitor hemlocks for hemlock woolly adelgid and if found, make a note to monitor again in the spring for possible management, if needed. Winter moths should begin to emerge in a few weeks, with the majority of them usually emerging around Thanksgiving, especially after a rain and on warm nights. Slugs, snail and mosquitoes remain active but in very low numbers. However, adult deer ticks are numerous and very active and several people have reported pulling ticks off of their dogs as well as themselves. Be vigilant and continue to take precautions by using repellents, conducting deer checks frequently, and every day, after working outdoors, throw all work clothes in the dryer for ten minutes on high to kill any ticks and head for the shower. Deer ticks can be found in many areas but especially amongst leaf litter and in grassy, wooded areas.

red-headed cricket, Phyllopalpus pulchellus The insects that are sometimes referred to as “fall invaders”, (stinkbugs, Asian ladybugs (Harmonia axyridis), Western Conifer Seedbugs, etc., are active and usually may be found on the south/southwest sides of buildings looking for ways to enter and find shelter to overwinter. Interestingly, I recently found a new insect, for me that was congregating on my house. I don’t know if it was trying to seek shelter or just resting. Anyway, I thought I would share the image in case you or your clients see it too. The insect is called the red-headed cricket, Phyllopalpus pulchellus.

Fall cleanups are underway, and now is a good time to continue to remove hazard trees and to plant new trees, as well. It is also a good time to reduce possible girdling damage to trees and shrubs from voles and field mice by removing mulch, grass and weeds from around the base of trees and shrubs, where these critters like to overwinter and feed.

Bella moth (Utetheisa ornatrix) Monarch, painted lady and red-spotted purple butterflies were just some of the butterflies seen this warm October, along with the not usually seen but beautiful, Bella moth (Utetheisa ornatrix).

Deer are actively browsing landscape plants and now might be a good time to start using a combination of repellents and/or fencing before winter weather and before increased feeding on high value plants to try and deter deer feeding. Wild turkeys are also active.

North Shore (Beverly)

General Conditions: Most of October was unseasonably warm. It felt more like late summer. Temperatures were mostly in the high 60s to high 70s during the day and in low to mid 60s during the night. The last week of October was more seasonable. Day temperatures were in the mid 60s and night temperatures were in the low to high 40s during the night. The lower temperatures made for easier and comfortable leaf cleanup. The month of October was also unseasonably dry, until much needed rainfall was received during the last week of the month. Two separate storms brought rainfall on October 25-26 and 29-30. The total rainfall for the month of October at Long Hill was 4.52 inches. Fall color continues in the landscape with different foliage colors, mainly yellows, oranges and reds. The few plants seen in bloom include: Redbud hazel (Disanthus cercidifolius), American witch hazel (Hamamelis virginiana), and Montauk daisy (Nipponanthemum nipponicum). Colorful fruiting plants such as hardy orange (Poncirus trifoliata), beautyberry (Callicarpa americana), and winterberry (Ilex verticillata) are also providing color in the landscape by their fruits.

Pests/Problems: The storm that passed on October 29-30 brought strong winds, which caused widespread power outages in the area. There were tree branch breakages and some damage to trees in the area. Poison ivy (Toxicodendron radicans) and burning bush (Euonymus alatus) are displaying fall foliage color in the woods. 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 on skin and permethrin on clothing to protect yourself. Mosquito populations are mostly done for the year.

East Region (Boston)

General Conditions: What a month – October has been very warm and very wet! For the city of Boston, October 2017 was the second warmest on record with an average temperature of 61.1° F. At the Arnold Arboretum, the average temperature for the month was 59.9° F (equivalent to the 3rd warmest October on record). We received 17 days with temperatures above 70° F, the second highest on record. We have yet to receive a frost. We started out the month with dry conditions as we continued to water newly planted trees. From the 23rd through to the 30th, we received two rain events, one lasting 4 days, dropping 2.25 inches of rain and a nor’easter during the evening of the 29th/30th, dropping 3.45 inches overnight. In one week, we received 5.7 inches of precipitation leaving soils waterlogged. Low-lying areas were flooded and gravel paths washed out. The nor’easter on the 29th/30th brought with it strong winds, with gusts over 35 mph. We received moderate damage, losing around 10 trees with many branches down throughout the grounds. There has been an abundance of hickory and walnut fruit over the last two weeks. The snapping turtles have been slowly migrating back to the meadow for the winter. Hamamelis virginiana (common witch-hazel) is in bloom along with its cultivars including H. v. f. rubescens ‘Mohonk Red’.

Pests/Problems: Clean up continues from the 29th/30th nor’easter with downed limbs throughout the grounds. Many leaves remain on the trees at this time. Galinsoga quadriradiata (hairy galinsoga) is in bloom. Ficaria verna (pilewort) has started to leaf out in sunny areas. Powdery mildew is apparent on Hamamelis vernalis (vernal witch-hazel).

Metro West (Acton)

General Conditions: Mild, if not warm weather persisted into October and this area continued to accumulate growing degree-days throughout the month, accumulating a grand total of 210 gdd! We did experience our first fall frost on the 17th and the dry weather pattern was broken with a number of much-needed rain events occurring on the 24th, 25th, 26th, 29th, and 30th. The average monthly precipitation for October is 3.39” and the total measured for the month was 5.82”. This immediate reporting area was not hugely impacted by the autumn storm that greatly impacted areas in New England earlier this week. A few plants currently seen in bloom include: Aster spp. (New England Aster, New York Aster, Smoother Aster, White Wood Aster), A. tataricus (Tatarian Aster), Allium thunbergii ‘Ozawa’ (Ornamental Onion), Nipponanthemum nipponicum (Montauk Daisy). Fruits, pomes, seeds and early fall color are providing some additional interest in the landscape. Seen are the red fruits of Cornus florida (Flowering Dogwood), C. kousa (Kousa Dogwood) and Ilex verticilata (Winterberry),a variety of colors and sizes of fruit on the Callicarpa dichotoma (Beautyberry), Cornus racemosa (Gray Dogwood), Crataegus spp. (Hawthorn), Malus spp. (Apple and Crabapple), Rosa spp. (Rose), Sorbus spp. (Mountain Ash), and Viburnums spp., seed heads on ornamental grasses, seedpods on Catalpa sp., and nuts on Carya spp. (Hickory), Heptacodium miconioides (Seven-Son Flower), Juglans spp. (Walnut) and Quercus spp. (Oak).

Pests/Problems: With the recent rain events, drought conditions in the area have improved. There is lots of leaf and woody debris on the ground from the storm earlier this week.

Central Region (Boylston)

General Conditions: October was pleasantly warm and quite dry early in the month. Light frost touched a few tender plants on two evenings with a slightly harder frost striking on November 1st. We have yet to receive a killing frost. Dry conditions were alleviated by heavy rain recorded on October 25th and 26th. Torrential downpours and high winds occurred during the evening of October 29th. Sporadic tree damage occurred throughout the region. Many cool-tolerant annuals remained showy through most of the month. Chrysanthemum ‘Mei-Kyo’, Aster tataricus, and Actaea ‘White Pearl’ remain in bloom. Winterberries (Ilex verticillata) are bearing a prolific crop this year and are really beginning to take center stage as the foliage begins to drop. Some spectacular foliage color was seen in central Massachusetts, particularly in low-lying, moist areas. Where conditions were dry and earlier anthracnose problems occurred, foliage color was subdued.

Pests/Problems: Bucks are rubbing the bark on small trees and ticks are becoming active again. Wasp and hornets remain active, especially on warm days and lady bugs and stink bugs are entering homes in search of warmer overwintering sites.

Pioneer Valley Region (Amherst)

General Conditions: Conditions remained parched during much of October, continuing the trend of abnormally dry weather this autumn season. From 9/1 through 10/23, the valley accumulated less than 4” of precipitation, primarily from two rain events separated by over a month (9/3 and 10/8-9). In between, we experienced weeks of dry weather and sunny conditions. The U.S. Drought Monitor elevated the drought intensity for much of Hampden County to the “moderate drought” (D1) level in the weekly update on 10/26, while the remainder of the valley remained in “abnormally dry” (D0). Finally, we received a soaking rainstorm with plentiful accumulations from 10/24 through 10/26. The brunt of the total rainfall occurred during the late day hours of 10/24, with over 3” of rain recorded at many weather stations by the morning of 10/25. Strong winds, with gusts that peaked to 30 mph at Barnes airport in Westfield, also accompanied the rainfall, stripping many trees of their senescing foliage. By the end of the three-day soggy stretch, we received just under 4.5” of badly needed rain. Then, just days later the valley experienced another similar rain event, with intense rainfall during the nighttime hours of 10/29 and morning of 10/30. Again, strong winds accompanied the rain, with gusts up to 35 mph recorded at Barnes Airport. There were widespread power outages in the region from downed limbs and whole trees. In Easthampton, more than 3.75” of rain was recorded from the 10/29-10/30 storm, with a staggering total of 8” of accumulation over the seven-day span from 10/24 through 10/30. The two major rain events in late October represented an amazing turn of events after many weeks of dry and mostly sunny weather. Prior to the rain, we had been locked into a stretch of beautiful autumn weather, with highs generally in the 70s and lows in the 40s and 50s. Peak fall foliage was undeniably delayed this year in the Pioneer Valley. While many sugar maples did not exhibit their customary bright orange/yellow color, many other trees (e.g. red maple, American ash, gingko, honeylocust, black birch, sourwood, etc.) picked up the slack and contributed to a colorful landscape. Overall, 2017 won’t be remembered as a particularly good year for foliage but the show was decent all the same. The dry conditions during most of this autumn season weren’t ideal for transplanting trees and shrubs and rehabilitating turfgrasses. Supplemental water is recommended for transplanted conifers and broad-leaved evergreens through November. However, with soils currently saturated there is no need for supplemental water at this time. For many deciduous trees and shrubs that went dormant prior to the rain, we can only hope they were not suffering from serious drought stress prior to dormancy. The valley experienced three highly scattered frosts over this reporting period, with the latest on 10/17 and 11/1 taking place at the lowest elevations along the Deerfield and Connecticut Rivers. To date, there has not been a widespread frost over the region, decidedly late for this time in the season. Perhaps as confirmation, the National Weather Service Climate Prediction Center is calling for warmer than average conditions from November through January (http://www.cpc.noaa.gov/). Warmer winters favor greater overwinter survival of exotic pests and pathogens that are not well adapted to withstand cold conditions.

Pests/Problems: Collect and discard deciduous foliage from trees that suffered from high levels of foliar disease problems this season, such as crabapples/apples. Infected foliage allows fungal pathogens to overwinter at the site and if left, they can produce spores next spring that will attack newly developing foliage. Nearly all pathogens will have gone dormant by this time, meaning that active management is no longer warranted. Pruning of blighted branches and stems should take place over the next several months to eliminate this dead material from the canopy, again to reduce inoculum capable of initiating new infections.

Berkshire Region (Great Barrington)

General Conditions: Until the last few days of the month, October was quite dry. Despite rainfall for most of the year being a few inches above normal, dry conditions in September and most of October led to a year-to-date deficit of a little more than 2 inches. Yet, that was still over 8 inches above the total rainfall at this time last year. The small deficit created by dry conditions in September and October was wiped out by the momentous storm on October 29 and 30 which dropped 3.12 inches of rain at this monitoring site in Great Barrington. The strong winds which accompanied the storm brought down some trees and numerous tree limbs and led to scattered power outages. Daytime temperatures for about half the days of the month were above normal highs. However, frost was reported on the mornings of October 2, 17, 18, and 28. In south County, these were light frosts, but in central and north County there were low lying areas where temperatures dropped to the upper 20s. These frosts had little effect on herbaceous perennials and hardy annuals. Fall foliage color was somewhat disappointing since many trees, mostly maples and ash, dropped their leaves early, the result of foliar diseases and/or drought conditions. Some of the beauty of fall foliage in the Berkshires was salvaged by trees on moist sites and by trees such as most oaks (Quercus sp.), American beech (Fagus grandifolia), witch hazel (Hamamelis virginiana), musclewood (Carpinus caroliniana), and ironwood (Ostrya Virginiana) which exhibit marcescence, i.e. leaf retention due to absence of an abscission zone at the base of the leaf.

Pests/Problems: The nymphs of magnolia scale are easily detected on the one and two year twigs of magnolias now that the trees have dropped most of their leaves. Make note of the infested trees and plan to apply dormant horticultural oil in spring prior to bud break.

Adults of deer ticks are plentiful and reports of tick bites have increased, most likely due to normal fall cleanup operations. The adult ticks hide among fallen leaves while awaiting a host. The normal precautions to protect yourself from deer ticks should be taken seriously at this time.

Regional Scouting Credits

  • CAPE COD REGION - Russell Norton, Horticulture and Agriculture Educator with Cape Cod Cooperative Extension, 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.

Ornamentals

Diseases

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

Spruce needle cast, caused by Lirula macrospora, on Norway spruce (Picea abies). In fall of 2016, several 11-year-old Norway spruce trees growing in a field at a nursery showed symptoms of needle cast. Symptoms intensified in summer of 2017 and when samples were submitted in mid-October, the damage was significant throughout the lower canopy of the affected trees. Symptoms included yellowing and browning of 1- and 2-year-old needles, while the current season’s growth appears green and relatively healthy. The setting offers full sun with sandy, well-drained soils. Lirula is known to attack various species of spruce but is not considered an aggressive or particularly important needle cast pathogen. The 2016 drought, abundant early season rainfall in 2017 and dense planting at the nursery likely contributed to disease development. Two additional samples from recently transplanted Norway spruce were also positive for Lirula. In those cases, needle damage in the lower canopy was also significant and the trees will likely be removed. Lirula is closely-related to Lophodermium, a better known needle cast pathogen of pine and juniper. It produces football-shaped, black-colored spore bearing structures on infected needles that may be readily observed during the spring.

Stigmina needle cast, caused by Stigmina lautii, of Asian spruce (Picea schrenkiana) and Alberta white spruce (P. engelmannii × glauca var. albertiana). Both trees are approximately 30-years-old and growing in an arboretum setting. Over the past several years, older needles are becoming yellow to brown and prematurely shedding from the canopy. Trees reside in partially shaded setting with well-drained soils. Stigmina is an emerging pathogen of spruce in the region, becoming more abundant on landscape trees in conjunction with Rhizosphaera and by itself, as was the case here.

Larch needle cast, caused by Mycosphaerella laricina, on Siberian larch (Larix sibirica). This 30’ fall larch is 60-years-old and has been present at the site for 55 years. Around mid-summer, needle tip browning and premature needle shedding appeared in the lower 2/3 of tree’s canopy and has since worsened. Mycosphaerella laricina is native to Europe and is believed to have been introduced to North America sometime in the 1960s or early 1970s. Symptoms of infection first appear as small, brown-colored spots on the needle surface. As the disease develops, the browning intensifies and infected needles may be shed prematurely, as was the case here. Blighted needles often do not abscise properly and remain in the canopy, providing inoculum to infect newly developing needles the following spring.

Cytospora stem cankering (Cytospora sp.) and brown needle spot (Lecaonsticta acicola) of eastern white pine (Pinus strobus). Tree is approximately eight-years-old and was transplanted in early June. Initially, it appeared the tree was suffering from transplant shock but the needle yellowing and twig dieback worsened as the summer progressed. Tree resides in a landscape setting with partial shade and drip irrigation.

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:

  • 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, or have captured an adult beetle that you believe to be ALB, 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

  • Emerald Ash Borer (EAB): *New Town Detection in Norfolk County* Agrilus planipennis (EAB) was detected in Dedham, MA and confirmed for the first time this week. Although emerald ash borer was previously detected in Norfolk County in Brookline, MA (2017) via trap detections, infested trees with galleries (larval tunneling) and exit holes (from adult EAB) were viewed and confirmed by the MA Department of Conservation and Recreation in Dedham, MA. The original report of the infestation in Dedham was made to the MA Department of Agricultural Resources.

EAB readily attacks ash (Fraxinus spp.) including white, green, and black ash and has also been found developing in white fringe tree (Chionanthus virginicus) and most recently, cultivated olive (Olea europaea). (See: https://academic.oup.com/jee/article-lookup/doi/10.1093/jee/tox139). Signs of an EAB infested tree may include D-shaped exit holes in the bark, “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/upon peeling 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 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. If you believe you have located EAB-infested ash trees, particularly in an area of Massachusetts not identified on th e map provided, please report it at the Massachusetts Introduced Pests Outreach Project: http://massnrc.org/pests/pestreports.htm.

  • Fall Home-Invading Insects: Various insects, such as ladybugs, boxelder bugs, seed bugs, and stink bugs continue to seek overwintering shelters in warm places, such as homes. While such invaders do not cause any measurable 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, continue to repair torn window screens, repair gaps around windows and doors, and sure up any other gaps through which they might enter the home. Brown marmorated stink bugs, Halyomorpha halys, are invasive insects that have been found in Massachusetts and can be among the offending home-invading species in the fall. For more information about the brown marmorated stink bug including how they may be distinguished from our native stinkbugs, visit https://www.massnrc.org/pests/pestFAQsheets/brownmarmoratedstinkbug.html
  • Gypsy Moth: Lymantria dispar is overwintering in the egg stage as is typical for this insect. Although the caterpillar killing fungus, Entomophaga maimaiga, was thankfully active in the summer of 2017, some caterpillars survived through pupation and into adulthood and were thus able to mate and lay eggs. The Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) has released the following map of the 2017 defoliation across Massachusetts from gypsy moth, along with numbers of egg masses they counted at various locations across the state. The egg masses represented in their map are from a count of all masses visible on 10 trees (any species) from 1-acre plots. While we cannot accurately predict the population of gypsy moth for 2018, this map serves as a reminder that although the outlook is much better because of the impact of E. maimaiga, gypsy moth will not completely disappear from Massachusetts landscapes next year. You can view the MA DCR map here: 2017 Gypsy Moth Egg Mass Survey
  • Spotted Lanternfly: Lycorma delicatula is not known to occur in Massachusetts. This insect is a member of the Order Hemiptera (true bugs, cicadas, hoppers, aphids, and others) and the Family Fulgoridae, also known as planthoppers. This insect 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), apple (Malus spp.), plum, cherry, peach, apricot (Prunus spp.), grape (Vitis spp.), pine (Pinus spp.) and others.

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 at times look similar to gypsy moth egg masses.

Tree of heaven, 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, look to the upcoming November issue of Hort Notes under Trouble Makers: http://ag.umass.edu/landscape/newsletters-updates/hort-notes

  • Winter Moth: Operophtera brumata adult emergence generally occurs around mid-November, particularly around the Thanksgiving Holiday. Male winter moths have wings and are able to fly. They are light colored moths with a band of black marks extending across the tip of the wings. Adult female winter moths have greatly reduced wings (and are sometimes said to be wingless) and are incapable of flying. No management options are recommended or effective against the adult moth stage of this pest. For example, although some may attempt to apply bands of sticky material around trees they anticipate to be impacted by this insect, while they may capture some of the female winter moths as they crawl up the trunk to lay their eggs, this will not be 100% effective, as moths invariably make their way beyond the band. Adult winter moths do not feed. Females will lay the eggs that will hatch next spring.

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.

Pollinator Protection Resource Online: The Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources has developed a Massachusetts Pollinator Protection Plan. It is a set of voluntary guidelines that discuss best management practices for stakeholders seeking to promote the health of the European honeybee and other pollinators. This document includes information for beekeepers, pesticide applicators, land managers and farmers, nurseries and landscapers, and homeowners and gardeners. Please locate the MA Pollinator Protection Plan for more information here: http://www.mass.gov/eea/docs/agr/farmproducts/apiary/pollinator-plan.pdf.

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 red Test a Tick button for more information.

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

Plant of the Week

Ginkgo biloba, maidenhair tree Ginkgo biloba, maidenhair tree Ginkgo biloba, maidenhair tree

Ginkgo biloba, maidenhair tree

Ginkgo biloba is a large deciduous tree, growing 40-80’ and 30-40’ wide (can reach up to 100’). Plants have a pyramidal shape with young with branches spreading with age. The bright green leaves are triangular to fan shaped and are generally notched at the apex. Leaves are on spurs in clusters of 3-5. Ginkgo biloba has excellent bright yellow fall color, but a hard frost can cause almost all leaves to fall in a single day. Trees are dioecious, meaning there are separate male and female plants. Female trees produce a light orange to tan fruit that resembles an apricot. Male trees should be planted as the fruit has a horrible smell (female trees are outlawed in same areas of the US). Trees will not flower or fruit until they are 20 years old. Bark is grey to brown and ridged. Ginkgo biloba has no serious insect or disease problems making it a great specimen, lawn shade tree, or street tree. Trees are best planted in well-drained soil in full sun. It is tolerant of a wide range of soils from alkaline to acidic and adapts well to urban environments.  

Report by Mandy Bayer, Extension Assistant Professor of Sustainable Landscape Horticulture, UMass Stockbridge School of Agriculture


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For commercial growers of greenhouse crops and flowers - Check out the New England Greenhouse Update website

For professional turf managers - Check out Turf Management Updates

For home gardeners and garden retailers - Check out home lawn and garden resources. UMass Extension also has a Twitter feed that provides timely, daily gardening tips, sunrise and sunset times to home gardeners, see https://twitter.com/UMassGardenClip

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