What happened to these tender leaves? They are victims of the Winter Moth- a damaging introduced pest that can eat through scores of leaves from trees, shrubs and sometimes perennials. Oak and cherry trees are favorites! These pests have few natural predators, lay eggs in the late fall/early winter, and emerge as bright green caterpillars in early spring. March and April are the vulnerable months when hungry caterpillars eat and eat and eat. Hand picking and destroying the caterpillars is feasible only on smaller plants. Mature plants are often treated with a suffocating spray once before the caterpillars emerge and again afterward.
For more detailed information about identification, its life stages are and potential treatment options see the links below. Healthy leaves are necessary for proper growth and survival. http://extension.umass.edu/landscape/fact-sheets/winter-moth-identification-management http://www.massnrc.org/pests/pestFAQsheets/winter%20moth.html http://www.northeastnursery.com/garden/whatsnew_helpfulhints_wintermoth.html http://boston.cbslocal.com/2012/03/09/mass-braces-for-winter-moth-surge/ |
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September 2023
CateInspiration comes from the world around us; color, texture, pattern- all components of the ever changing landscape. The camera captures these moments for further reflection. This blog will feature monthly musings centered on the landscape. Categories
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