Landscape Message: July 11, 2025

UMass Extension's Landscape Message is an educational newsletter intended to inform and guide Massachusetts land care 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. 

This is the thirteenth Landscape Message of the 2025 growing season!  We have now reached the bi-weekly phase of our annual schedule, and the next message will be published in two weeks, on July 25. To receive immediate notification when the next Landscape Message update is posted, be sure to join our e-mail list 

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In This Issue

Regional Scouting Observations

Environmental Data

Plant Phenology

Regional Notes 

     Cape Cod Region (Barnstable)

     Southeast Region (Plymouth)

     North Shore (Beverly)

     East (Boston)

              Metro West (Acton)

              Central Region (Boylston)

              Pioneer Valley (Amherst)

              Berkshire Region (West Stockbridge)

Landscape Pest Reports

Diseases

Insects and Other Arthropods

Weeds

Additional Resources

Regional Scouting Observations

Environmental Data

The following data was collected on or about July 9, 2025. Total accumulated growing degree days (GDD) represent the heating units above a 50ºF baseline temperature collected via regional NEWA stations for the 2025 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.

US Drought Monitor:  At this time, about 28% of the land area of Massachusetts is classified as at least D0 (Abnormally Dry).  Of this, 5% is classified as D1 (Moderate Drought). State map as of Thursday, July 10. 

Plant Phenology

The basis of plant phenology is that specific environmental conditions such as temperature, daylength, and precipitation directly influence plant development at a given location. The development of other organisms of interest, such as insects, are also subject to the same factors, and this natural synchrony can aid in decision making that is free of the limitations of calendar dates. The bloom stage of plants can be an especially visible and useful tool for optimizing planting schedules, better timing of cultural activities such as pruning, fertilization, and pest management, or simply taking note of seasonal progress.

Regional Notes

Cape Cod Region (Barnstable)

General Conditions:

The average temperature for the period from June 25 through July 9 was 71°F with a high of 91°F on July 8 and a low of 53°F on July 5. The period has been variable, but the majority of days had highs in the 80s and lows in the 60s with a mix of cloudy, partially cloudy and sunny days.

Three quarters of an inch of precipitation occurred with most coming on July 7 and 8. Soil moisture is short.

Herbaceous plants seen in bloom include purple cone flower (Echinacea purpurea), blazing star (Liatris spicata), montbretia (Crocosmia ‘Lucifer’), red hot poker (Kniphofia uvaria), and Asiatic lilies (Lilium spp.).

Pests/Problems:

Dry soil conditions combined with bright sun, hot temperatures and windy conditions have resulted in scorch showing up on many landscape ornamentals. Unirrigated lawns have gone summer dormant and unestablished plantings require extra irrigation attention.

Periodical cicada activity has rapidly declined during the end of the period and only a few can be seen at this time. The last time I heard cicadas was on July 6. Flagging as a result of ovipositing is intense in areas that had high populations of cicadas with white oaks showing the most significant flagging. Flagging can be seen on a wide variety of landscape plants as well. In many cases ovipositing has also weakened twigs that have broken in recent high winds. Flagging on ornamental shrubs and trees can be pruned out during dry periods, ideally leaving the pruned materials in the vicinity. Watering during dry periods might also be helpful to reduce further stress on impacted plants.

The second generation of box tree moth caterpillars are active and feeding on boxwood. Plantings of boxwood should be actively scouted at this time as damage progresses rapidly if left unmanaged.

Insects observed during the period include Asiatic, Japanese, and Oriental beetle on many ornamentals, lily leaf beetle on Asiatic lily, prionus beetle (oak root borer), hibiscus sawfly on hardy hibiscus, euonymus scale on wintercreeper, four lined plant bug on Russian sage, and fall webworm on tupelo. Insect damage observed during the period includes columbine leaf miner damage on columbine, eastern spruce galls on Norway spruce, rose slug sawfly damage on rose, viburnum leaf beetle damage on arrowwood viburnum, and daylily leafminer damage on daylily.

Disease signs or symptoms observed during the period include anthracnose on maple and oak, leaf spot on river birch, leaf spot on bigleaf hydrangea, bacterial leaf spot on smooth hydrangea, downy mildew on cleome, white smut on gallardia, brown rot on ornamental cherry, guignardia blotch on horse chestnut, septoria leaf spot on red twig dogwood, and powdery mildew on numerous woody and herbaceous plants.

Weeds seen in bloom include spotted knapweed (Centaurea stoebe), prostate spurge (Euphorbia maculata) and white clover (Trifolium repens).

Slugs, snails, and rabbits are all active. 

Russell Norton, Horticulture and Agriculture Educator with Cape Cod Cooperative Extension, reporting from Barnstable.

Southeast Region (Plymouth)

General Conditions: 

The overall conditions were warm and humid for the period. There were some sporadic rain events, including a microburst on July 3. However, the overall total precipitation was low with a total of 0.60”.

Ornamental plants observed blooming include hydrangeas (Hydrangea spp.), small-leaved plantain lily (Hosta sieboldii), daylilies (Hemerocallis spp.), common yucca (Yucca filamentosa), Japanese spiraea (Spiraea japonica), sheep’s bit (Jasione montana) and coreopsis (Coreopsis spp.).

Blooming native plants include steeplebush (Spiraea tomentosa), white meadowsweet (Spiraea alba), pokeweed (Phytolacca americana), common milkweed (Asclepias syriaca), common self-heal (Prunella vulgaris), common yarrow (Achillea millefolium), goat’s rue (Tephrosia virginiana), blue toadflax (Nuttallanthus canadensis), and Robin’s plantain (Erigeron pulchellus). Mountain mints (Pycnanthemum spp.) are blooming and buzzing with pollinators.

Pests/Problems:

While we have received frequent rain events this year, we have received very little total precipitation. Much of the southern portion of the region is still in D0 status. According to the National Weather Service, D0 can be defined as “Going into drought, short-term dryness slowing planting, growth of crops and pastures; fire risk above average.”

Diseases and pathogens associated with high humidity and moisture, such as anthracnose on maple trees, have been observed. At the same time, some plants in the area are suffering from near-drought conditions. Water tables are very low throughout the area. Some lawns are becoming dry and crunchy, unless supplemented by additional watering.

Weedy plants in turf include spotted knapweed (Centaurea stoebe), brown knapweed (Centaurea jacea), smartweed, (Persicaria extremiorientalis), hawkweed (Hierracium spp.), bird’s-foot trefoil (Lotus corniculatus), tufted vetch (Vicia cracca), coreopsis (Coreopsis spp.), and white clover (Trifolium repens). Common yarrow (Achillea millefolium) and common heal-all (Prunella vulgaris) are blooming. While native, these plants can move into lawns and landscapes. Invasive common toadflax (a.k.a. butter-and-eggs toadflax) (Linaria vulgaris) is blooming.

Oriental beetle (Anomala orientalis) and Japanese beetle (Popillia japonica) are common throughout the area.

Deer browsing is becoming intense in some areas – very noticeable on hostas and vegetable gardens.

Adult jumping worms (Amynthas spp. and Metaphire sp.) have been observed in the area. The clitellum is apparent on these adults, which is useful in separating these worms from others.

As we head into the high heat of summer, mosquito life cycles can be as short as 1 week. Frequent rain events can lead to the accumulation of water throughout yards and neighborhoods. Be sure to tip/toss water on a weekly basis.

North Shore (Beverly)

General Conditions: 

The weather during the past two weeks was quite variable, ranging from dry, hot and humid to cool with some scattered rain showers. Day temperatures ranged from 65℉ to 90℉ and night temperatures ranged from 55℉ to 70℉. The average daily temperature was 71℉ with a minimum temperature of 55°F recorded on July 5 and a maximum temperature of 90℉ recorded on July 1, 6 and 8.

A quick rainstorm came through on July 1 and brought some beneficial rain. Approximately 0.75” of rainfall was recorded in Beverly during this period.

Woody plants seen in bloom include oakleaf hydrangea (Hydrangea quercifolia), big leaf hydrangea (Hydrangea macrophylla), smooth leaf hydrangea (Hydrangea arborescens), summer blooming spiraea (Spiraea japonica), silk tree or mimosa (Albizia julibrissin), cut-leaf chaste tree (Vitex negundo), goldenrain tree (Koelreuteria paniculata), mountain stewartia (Stewartia ovata), and trumpet vine (Campsis radicans).

Herbaceous plants seen in bloom include garden phlox (Phlox paniculata), summer flowering roses (Rosa spp.), black eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta), purple coneflower (Echinacea purpurea), clematis vine (Clematis spp.), balloon flower (Platycodon grandiflorus), hardy cranesbill (Geranium spp.), bugbane (Actaea racemosa), spiderwort (Tradescantia spp.), fleece flower (Persicaria polymorpha), goat’s beard (Aruncus dioicus), water lilies (Nymphaea spp.), shasta daisy (Leucanthemum x superbum), ox-eye daisy (Leucanthemum vulgare), daylilies (Hemerocallis spp.) and bee balm (Monarda didyma).

Pests/Problems:

Magnolia scale (Neolecanium cornuparvum) was observed on saucer Magnolia. These are large scales with a white waxy covering. Small infestations can be removed by hand by softly brushing them off the plant into a collection container with soapy water or by pruning out infested branches.

Peony blotches caused by the fungus (Graphiopsis chlorocephala) were observed on peony leaves. To prevent this disease, cut off the plants to the ground before the winter and discard them. During the growing season avoid wetting the leaves when watering the plants.

Weeds continue to thrive in the landscape. Control weeds before they set seed. Poison ivy is also thriving, so take caution when walking or working in the woods.

Remember also that ticks and mosquitoes are very active. Take measures to protect yourself while working outdoors, especially at dawn or at dusk.

Geoffrey Njue, Green Industry Specialist, UMass Extension, reporting from the Long Hill Reservation, Beverly.

East (Boston)

General Conditions: 

The past two weeks have been sunny, hot and humid. Daytime temperatures averaged 85℉ with a high of 94℉ on July 6. There was not much overnight relief with temperatures averaging 65℉, including seven nights remaining above 70℉.

We accumulated 0.24” of precipitation over this two-week reporting period. We recorded 1.81” total for the month of June.

Plants in bloom include oakleaf hydrangea (Hydrangea quercifolia), balloon flower (Platycodon grandiflorus), Japanese spirea (Spiraea japonica), and common yucca (Yucca filamentosa).

Pests/Problems:

The imported willow leaf beetle adults (Plagrodera versicolor) have been feeding on willow (Salix spp.) and polar (Populus spp.) foliage. There are 2-3 generations of this insect per year. The adults chew holes in the leaves; while the larvae, causing more significant damage, skeletonize the leaves. Mature plants typically tolerate the yearly feeding.

The generally reliable inkberry (Ilex glabra) suffered varying degrees of winter damage this past year. Most bounced back after proper pruning and favorable spring conditions. Currently we have observed some yellowing/browning of foliage. This may indicate the presence of the inkberry leafminer (Phytomyza glabricola). Blotch mines are created by larval feeding, two or more generations may occur. The life cycle of this insect in Massachusetts is not fully understood. Remove mined leaves to prevent adult emergence. Monitor with yellow sticky cards for identification and to create a management plan.

Kit Ganshaw & Sue Pfeiffer, Horticulturists, reporting from the Boston area.

Metro West (Acton)

General Conditions: 

Summer is here, and we have the heat and humidity to show for it. We’ve now experienced our second heat wave of the season during this last two-week reporting period beginning on July 6 and continuing through to June 8 with high temperatures recorded at 94°F, 91°F, and 90F° respectively.

Unfortunately, there has been little precipitation recorded over the past 14 days! For June, the historical monthly average precipitation is 3.93” and 2.33” of rain was recorded. For July, the historical monthly average precipitation is 3.43” and as of July 8, .37” of rain has been recorded so far.

Observed in some stage of bloom at this time is the following small assortment of woody and herbaceous plants including hollyhocks (Alcea rosea), common milkweed (Asclepias syriaca), butterfly weed (Asclepias tuberosa), trumpet vine (Campsis radicans), Queen Anne's lace (Daucus carota), bee balm (Monarda didyma), balloon flower (Platycodon grandiflorus), and yucca(Yucca filamentosa).

Pests/Problems:

Observed in the landscape these past two weeks were cedar apple rust on serviceberry (Amelanchier sp.) and trees, shrubs, and perennials stressed due to the lack of sufficient rain. Signs of plant stress include premature leaf drop and flagging foliage.

Julie Coop, Forester, Massachusetts Department of Conservation & Recreation, reporting from Acton.

Central Region (Boylston)

General Conditions: 

Hot and humid conditions continue along with long stretches of dry days and no rain. There was a common theme of predicted rain events then, unfortunately, petering out. Temperatures averaged around 86.4℉, the highest being 97.7℉ on June 25 and the lowest night temperature being 56.5℉ on July 5.

Rainfall has been poor, averaging 0.37” since the last report, creating dry conditions. The average rainfall was 3.25” for the month of June last year, compared to 0.94” in June this year.

Some flowering woodies that can be seen are oakleaf hydrangea (Hydrangea quercifolia), rosebay rhododendron (Rhododendron maximum), smooth hydrangea (Hydrangea arborescens), American chestnut (Castanea dentata), and silver linden (Tilia tomentosa).

Herbaceous material that can be seen in bloom are butterfly weed (Asclepias tuberosa), obedient plant (Physostegia virginiana), St. John’s wort (Hypericum spp.), purple prairie mallow (Callirhoe involucrata), Japanese aster (Aster pekinensis), daylilies (Hemerocallis spp.), yucca (Yucca filamentosa), and balloon flower (Platycodon grandiflorus).

Pests/Problems:

With the excessive heat and lack of rainfall, a lot of plants are struggling and drying up, even established plantings from previous years.

Lily leaf beetle can be seen on different Lillium species along with extensive damage.

Different fungal problems can be seen such as rust on Deschampsia and potential Volutella blight on Pachysandra procumbens.

Anna Petrie, Plant Recorder, and Steven Conaway, Director of Horticulture, reporting from New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill, Boylston.

Pioneer Valley (Amherst)

General Conditions: 

We’ve entered the dog days of summer in the Pioneer Valley and are halfway through the calendar year. Conditions over this past reporting period have ranged from undeniably pleasant (4^th of July) to hot and swampy. Heat index values have once again hovered at or above 100°F during the latest heat wave (July 6 to July 8). Overall, this summer has produced fewer full sun days compared to previous years.

Despite the cloud cover, rainfall has recently been sparse in portions of the valley and some landscapes are really starting to dry out. From June 25 to July 8, many weather stations in Franklin and Hampshire Counties have recorded less than 0.5” of rain. Meanwhile, several stations in Hampden County have tallied 1-2”, once again illustrating the patchy distribution of summer thunderstorms. Total June precipitation ranged from roughly 2.5–4.5” in Hampden County, 3.0–4.75” in Hampshire County, and 3.0–5.0” in Franklin County.

While upper soil horizons are clearly drying, there must be moisture in deeper horizons because oak (Quercus spp.), maple (Acer spp.), elm (Ulmus spp.), tupleo (Nyssa spp.), larch (Larix spp.), hemlock (Tsuga spp.), and many other trees on the UMass campus are still pushing new growth.

A medley of herbaceous perennials are in flower, including coneflower (Echinacea spp.), lilies (Lilum spp.), daylilies (Hemerocallis spp.), zinnias (Zinnia spp.), and butterfly weed (Asclepias tuberosa).

Given the heat and humidity over the past several weeks, landscaping right now is not for the faint of heart. Primary garden tasks include watering, weeding, mulching, and carefully scouting plants for pest and pathogen activity. Only through regular scouting can some issues be immediately addressed before serious damage takes place.

Pests/Problems:

Foliar pathogens are locally serious on certain trees. Principally, beech leaf disease (Litylenchus crenatae ssp. mccannii), which has been very damaging to understory American beech (Fagus grandifolia) across western Massachusetts. Previously dense forest understories of beech are now expansive and open.

Lilac leaf blotch, caused primarily by Pseudocercospora, may be a problem once again on common lilac (Syringa vulgaris). Disease severity was high in 2023 and 2024 with some plants nearly defoliated by late August. If symptoms are developing on high value plants, then foliar fungicides should be applied as soon as possible.

Other diseases observed across the UMass campus include Botryosphaeria canker of crabapple, oak leaf blister, cedar-quince rust, maple anthracnose, and oak anthracnose. Despite pockets of high disease severity, many trees and shrubs appear vigorous and healthy, owing largely to the abundance of rain this spring and early summer. That could quickly change if we experience another late season drought.

Invasive scarab beetles, such as Oriental (Anomala orientalis), Japanese (Popillia japonica), and Asiatic garden (Maladera formosae) are all active right now, feeding on a variety of herbaceous and woody plants.

Oriental bittersweet (Celastrus orbiculatus) and Japanese knotweed (Polygonum cuspidatum), the Commonwealth’s two most destructive invasive plants, continue their takeover.

Mosquito populations have waned since their peak in early to mid-June, and blackflies are still swarming in the early morning and evening hours.

Nick Brazee, Plant Pathologist, UMass Extension Plant Diagnostic Lab, reporting from Amherst.

Berkshire Region (West Stockbridge)

General Conditions:

The average temperature over the past two weeks was not quite as high as during the previous scouting period but was still quite warm. The average for the 3 NEWA sites in Berkshire County were: 71.2℉ in North Adams, 71.4℉ in Pittsfield, and 71.6℉ in Richmond. The highest temperatures for the period were: 89℉ on July 6 in North Adams, 89℉ in Richmond on June 25, and 88℉ in Pittsfield on June 25 and July 6. The low temperature over the 2 weeks was 50℉ on July 5 in both North Adams and Richmond and Pittsfield low was 51℉ on July 5.

Total precipitation for the period varied quite a bit in the Berkshire region as thunderstorms were quite spotty and some were severe. The highest was here at this site in West Stockbridge where 1.20” fell. However, most of that occurred on July 1 as part of an intense storm that not only dropped 1.07” of rain in less than an hour but was also accompanied by strong gusts of wind, reported to be up to 60 mph. This resulted in several uprooted trees and numerous broken tree limbs which caused some downed wires and power outages. Other than that storm, it was a fairly dry period as noted by the browning of some turfgrass. Typically, this is spotty, occurring mostly on sloped lawns and/or gravelly soils.

Overall, landscapes are quite colorful currently as the flowering of herbaceous perennials and woody species continues to progress in normal sequence into early summer.

Pests/Problems:

High humidity is probably a factor in promoting foliar diseases on many plants. Prominent among these is powdery mildew, which was observed on Sedum spp., peony (Paeonia spp.), bee balm (Monarda spp.), and meadow rue (Thalictrum spp.).

Other diseases seen include apple scab and cedar-apple rust on crabapples, black spot on roses, rust on switchgrass (Panicum virgatum), and daylily leaf streak on daylilies. Some crabapples are severely defoliated because of scab and rust diseases. Some hostas that are exposed to direct sunlight are showing significant scorch on their leaves. One such example was seen on hostas not only in open sunlight but also surrounded by a mulch of stones.

Pests observed during this period include Asiatic garden beetle (Maladera formosae) on composite flowers and some vegetable crops, lily leaf beetle adults and pupae, and Japanese beetles. Though the period was mostly dry and humid, slugs could be found feeding on the undersides of herbaceous plants, but also hiding among the spent foliage covering the ground. Aphids are also common on the foliage of many plants. Jumping worms (Amynthas spp.) are in great abundance in gardens, lawns, and fields. The population of deer ticks and mosquitoes remains extremely high.

Ron Kujawski, Horticultural Consultant, reporting from West Stockbridge.

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Landscape Pest Reports

Diseases

Recent pests, pathogens, or problems of interest seen in the UMass Extension Plant Diagnostic Lab, a select few:

Anthracnose of Japanese maple (Acer palmatum) caused by Discula campestris. Several trees of varying cultivars from multiple properties. Growing conditions range from full sun with drip irrigation to shade with regular, hand-watering. In most cases, soils quality is good, and the trees are properly maintained. Symptoms include scattered, dark-colored spots and blotches that are especially abundant along the primary veins and margins. For some trees, marginal leaf scorch has resulted in curling and tattered leaves. Some premature leaf shedding has also developed. The newest growth at the shoot tips is most severely diseased for some trees. From afar, many trees appear healthy, but close inspection reveals the extent of the symptoms. Therefore, maple anthracnose by itself is not a significant threat to the health of the tree but can significantly reduce its aesthetic appearance.

Dutch elm disease (DED), caused by Ophiostoma novo-ulmi, of a young Jefferson elm (Ulmus americana ‘Jefferson’). The tree was 3.5” in diameter when planted in 2022 and experiences full sun in well-drained, sandy loam soils. The root zone is mulched, and the tree is watered as conditions demand. The tree is one of four and began rapidly declining in early June. The other three elms have not shown symptoms of the disease. Jefferson is a true American elm that is considered highly resistant to DED but is not immune to infection.

Sirococcus shoot blight (Sirococcus conigenus) on deodar cedar (Cedrus deodara). The tree is 10 years old and was planted at an arboretum. It experiences mostly full sun with southern exposure in well drained, loam soils. Earlier this summer, a shoot tip blight developed in the canopy with brown and wilted needles. Similar symptoms were present in the canopy last year (and possibly longer). The pathogen prefers cool, moist climates, and is found most often in coastal regions. Sirococcus attacks young, succulent shoots and can be found on a broad array of landscape conifers, including two- and three-needle pine (Pinus spp.), true fir (Abies spp.), spruce (Picea spp.), and true cedar (Cedrus spp.). Upon infection, newly developing shoots can die rapidly, and the stunted, wilted needles appear pale green to yellow-brown and often have a characteristic curled appearance. The fungus overwinters on dead needles and shoots that persist in the canopy.

Canopy dieback of a scarlet oak (Quercus coccinea) due in part to twig and branch cankering (Coryneum sp.) and oak anthracnose (Apiognomonia errabunda). The tree is 30 years old and has been present in its current location for 25 years. It resides 10’ off a sidewalk and roadway where it experiences full sun in well-drained soils with no supplemental irrigation. It was pruned recently to raise the canopy for clearance. In early summer, a complete dieback of the middle canopy developed along with other scattered areas of shoot blight. Other stress factors may be involved as Coryneum is often found attacking weakened oaks in the region. Oak anthracnose has been locally abundant this season, resulting in leaf blotching and some premature shedding.

Reported by Nick Brazee, Plant Pathologist, UMass Extension Plant Diagnostic Lab, UMass Amherst

Insects and Other Arthropods

Announcements:

The Professional Insect and Mite Management Guide for Woody Plants is freely available. Please let me know how it works or isn’t working for you using this feedback form. Your feedback is valuable, and I cannot wait to hear from you!

2025 Additions to the Professional Insect and Mite Management Guide for Woody Plants:

• Asian Chestnut Gall Wasp
• Asiatic Oak Weevil
• White-Spotted Sawyer

The following fact sheets have been recently updated:

• Andromeda Lace Bug
• Balsam Twig Aphid
• Boxelder Bug
• Mimosa Webworm
• Periodical Cicada

Brood XIV (14) Periodical Cicadas Have Emerged in Eastern MA in 2025!

• Periodical Cicadas in Barnstable County, MA (Cape Cod) are nearing the end of their above ground life cycle. Reports from the public about the Brood XIV activity in Massachusetts have been incredibly helpful! More information is provided here, and in the Cape Cod Region (Barnstable) report above. Remember, these native insects are not pests, and adults are only present in limited locations in limited communities on Cape Cod for a single growing season. After this year, they will return to the ground for another 17 years.

• Episode 6 of UMass Extension’s InsectXaminer features the life cycle of periodical cicadas! Check out the short (3 min.) video by visiting the InsectXaminer webpage.

• Episode 7 of UMass Extension’s InsectXaminer features the sounds of periodical cicadas! Check out the short (3 min.) video by visiting the InsectXaminer webpage.

• Where to Report Periodical Cicadas in Massachusetts: Report Periodical Cicadas in Eastern MA through iNaturalist.

Introduced (Invasive) Species Updates:

• Asian Longhorned Beetle is still present in Worcester, Shrewsbury, Boylston, West Boylston, and parts of Auburn, MA. If you are familiar with this insect and the program in Massachusetts, you'll notice a community now missing from that list! Great news from USDA APHIS! Check out this press release:

APHIS Eradicates the Asian Longhorned Beetle from Holden, Massachusetts
Removes 12 Square Miles from Quarantine
Contact: aphispress[at]usda[dot]gov

Effective immediately, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS), in partnership with the State of Massachusetts, is removing the town of Holden, Massachusetts—a 12.3-square-mile area in Worcester County—from the Asian longhorned beetle (Anoplophora glabripennis; ALB) quarantined area.

APHIS determined that this area could be removed from quarantine after completing final host tree surveys. With this removal, 97.7 square miles remain under Federal quarantine in Worcester County, including the northern portion of the Town of Auburn and the Towns of Boylston/West Boylston, Shrewsbury, and Worcester.

“This is a huge accomplishment for the Town of Holden. Everyone who lives or works in and around the remaining quarantined area in Massachusetts should continue to look for and report the damage the beetle causes to trees,” said Josie Ryan, APHIS’ National Operations Manager for the Asian Longhorned Beetle Eradication Program. “By looking at your trees and reporting any suspicious tree damage, you can help us find the beetle sooner and eliminate it quicker.”

As a reminder, people who live in an ALB-quarantined area can help by doing the following:

-Check your trees for the beetle and the damage it causes and report any suspicious [insects].

-Allow program officials property access to inspect trees and remove any infested trees.

-Before hiring tree companies, confirm they have an ALB compliance agreement.

-Contact the program or municipality to learn how to dispose of or move yard waste.

-Contact the program if you have any tree materials that might have ALB.

-Buy or gather firewood where you will burn it or use certified heat-treated firewood.

ALB eradication programs are cooperative programs. In Massachusetts, APHIS works with USDA’s Forest Service and Agricultural Research Service and the Massachusetts’ Department of Conservation and Recreation and Department of Agricultural Resources. APHIS appreciates the cooperative relationship with the State of Massachusetts in the effort to prevent the spread of ALB.

For more information about the beetle and program activities, please call the ALB toll-free hotline at 1-866-702-9938 or visit www.aphis.usda.gov/pests-diseases/alb.

If you suspect you’ve found this insect or the damage it causes, please report it to the Asian Longhorned Beetle Eradication Program office in Worcester, MA at 508-852-8090 (local number). Adult Asian longhorned beetles typically begin their activity in MA by July 1st.

To report a suspected Asian longhorned beetle or the damage it causes on maple in Massachusetts, visit the Massachusetts Introduced Pests Outreach Project. To report suspected Asian longhorned beetle activity in states outside of Massachusetts, visit the USDA APHIS Asian Longhorned Beetle page.

• Asian Chestnut Gall Wasp is a non-native species that was first detected in Massachusetts in 2012 after initially being introduced into the USA in Georgia in 1974. Note: this is a new insect entry in the UMass Professional Insect and Mite Management Guide for Woody Plants ! This insect induces gall development in the petioles, leaves and stems of its host plants. Hosts include Chinese, Japanese, European and American chestnut. Rarely, these insects create galls in chinquapins. Trees infested with this insect experience inhibited shoot elongation, reduction in flowering/fruiting and nut production, premature leaf death and loss, twig dieback, reduction in tree vigor and sometimes mortality, particularly of smaller trees in combination with additional stressors. Reported to UMass Extension in Hampshire County, MA in October of 2024, damage from this insect on Chinese chestnut was also recently submitted to the UMass Plant Diagnostics Laboratory from a sample collected on 6/3/2025 from Rhode Island. The Rhode Island sample also suffered damage to the leaves from oak shothole leafminer.

• Box Tree Moth has been detected in some communities in Barnstable County, MA. A map of these locations is available here courtesy of the MA Department of Agricultural Resources. If you believe you have found this insect, please take a photo, note your location, and report it to the Massachusetts Introduced Pests Outreach Project.

• Elm Zigzag Sawfly as been detected in various communities in Massachusetts. A map of where elm zigzag sawfly has been confirmed in MA is available through the MA Department of Conservation and Recreation, Forest Health Program. If you believe you have found this insect, please take a photo, note your location, and report it immediately using the Massachusetts Elm Zigzag Sawfly Reporting Form. *Note: MA DCR, Forest Health has a new website! They are switching from the link above to this new page in July, 2025. Elm zigzag sawfly was recently detected in a sample submitted to the UMass Plant Diagnostics Laboratory from Columbia County, NY on 6/2/2025. Dan Gilrein, entomologist, of Cornell Cooperative Extension was notified. This is a new county detection for NY.

• Emerald Ash Borer is well established across most of Massachusetts. A map of these locations from the MA Department of Conservation and Recreation, Forest Health Program is available. *Note: MA DCR, Forest Health has a new website! They are switching from the link above to this new page in July, 2025.

• Jumping Worms are non-native earthworms that impact natural ecosystems. Available resources include a fact sheet about earthworms in Massachusetts and jumping worm FAQ’s.

• Spotted Lanternfly now has established populations in multiple communities in Massachusetts. By July, 4th instar nymphs should be developing their red coloration in addition to the black with white spots. By August, adults will be present. If you believe you have found this insect, please take a photo, note your location, and report it immediately to the Massachusetts Introduced Pests Outreach Project. Available resources include a map of spotted lanternfly locations in Massachusetts from the MA Department of Agricultural Resources, MDAR’s spotted lanternfly fact sheet, UMass Extension’s Spotted Lanternfly Management Guide, and an SLF InsectXaminer episode.

Medically Important Pests:

• Mosquitos and the diseases they vector are also a serious public health concern in Massachusetts by summer. Available resources include Mosquito Repellents from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health and Preventing Mosquito Bites from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The Massachusetts Department of Public Health tests for Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) and West Nile Virus (WNV) from June to October. Beginning in June, risk maps with details about mosquito activity will be available here through the MA Department of Public Health.

• Stinging Insects such as bees and wasps are active. Individuals with allergies to insect stings should take appropriate precautions. Most bees will not sting unless they feel threatened or are caught between a person and clothing or another object. Certain wasp species can be a different story, like the particularly aggressive baldfaced hornet (a wasp) or yellowjackets. While some of these wasps are difficult to coexist with, if their nests are a safe distance from where people frequently spend their time, they can be left alone. Wasps can be beneficial insects in landscapes, hunting and feeding their young pest caterpillars and other insects. A nest over a sidewalk or in the eave of a building near a door, however, may not be so easily tolerated.

• Ticks are a serious public health concern and may be active in managed landscapes any time temperatures are above freezing. Available resources include tick information from Cape Cod Cooperative Extension, personal protective measures, and a list of potential tick testing resources. The New England Center of Excellence in Vector-Borne Diseases (NEWVEC) also provides the latest tick information and resources. Previously recorded webinars about a range of tick-related topics can be found on this TickTalk with TickReport page.

Tree & Shrub Insect & Mite Pest Suggested Scouting:

• Cottony Maple Scales are likely the insects shown on the swamp azalea pictured here. There are two very common species regionally that may be found on this host plant and many others. Honeydew and sooty mold may be found on the leaves and branches, twig dieback, premature loss of foliage, and in very extreme conditions death of the host may occur when cottony maple scales are present. The cottony maple leaf scale may also cause premature leaf drop, and sometimes the death of host plant twigs and branches. Look for white, cottony egg masses associated with the adult females during the late spring as this is the most conspicuous stage of these insects. Scout for immature females overwintering on the twigs or crawlers on the undersides of leaves by June and July. Management may not be necessary unless populations are high and damage is occurring. *Note: the taxonomy of these insects is complicated. Updates to the UMass Professional Insect and Mite Management Guide for Woody Plants will be made soon.

• Cryptomeria Scale is found on the underside of host plant needles. It looks like a "fried egg" and mature females are approximately 1/20 of an inch in length. Eggs are reportedly laid by females in June which develop into second generation adults by mid-July. (Eggs are yellow in color and oval in shape.) A second generation of eggs is laid in late August and September. Crawlers appear in June and August, and their emergence may last several weeks. Crawler emergence is thought to peak approximately 2-3 weeks after eggs are laid. Each generation is not synchronous, meaning not all individuals mature at the same time and so multiple life stages may be present. 

• Dogwood Borer feeds as a larva on the phloem and cambium of their host plants. When dogwood flowers begin to drop, adult dogwood borer moths begin to emerge. Moth flight and activity can last through September. That being said, it is best to combine phenological indicators, growing degree day tracking, and pheromone trapping to accurately monitor this insect and time treatments. Research has suggested that emergence times for dogwood borer adult moths differ regionally and by host plant.
• Dogwood Sawfly pupation occurs in the springtime and adults can take a lengthy time to emerge, roughly between late May and July. 100+ eggs are laid in groups on the underside of leaves. Eggs hatch and the larvae feed gregariously, initially skeletonizing leaves. As the caterpillars grow in size, they are capable of eating the entire leaf with the exception of the midvein. Larval appearance varies greatly throughout instars, so much so that one might mistake them for multiple species. Early instars are translucent and yellow, but as the caterpillars grow they develop black spots (over yellow) and become covered in a white powder-like material. Larvae and their shed skins may resemble bird droppings. Full grown larvae begin to wander in search of a suitable overwintering location. Rotting wood lying on the ground is preferred for this.
• Dusky Birch Sawfly larvae may be present on newly planted trees, but this native species rarely reaches levels where chemical intervention is necessary. Foliage of birches, primarily gray birch, but also black, yellow, and paper birches is consumed. Small trees may be defoliated by these caterpillars that feed in groups, particularly around leaf margins. Second generation larvae may be present through September.
• European Hornets are large and intimidating but should not be confused for the northern giant hornet. European hornets girdle stems and branches by chewing away bark on ash, birch, boxwood, lilac, mountain ash, poplar, willow and rhododendron, particularly in August and September. This damage may sometimes be confused for squirrel activity. In the fall, adults may feed on apples prior to harvest, or be attracted to dropped fruit found on the ground. This species has historically been a problem in eastern Massachusetts since 1993 (Robert Childs, Personal Communication).

• European Pine Shoot Moth may refer to at least three species of native moths in the Northeast. The yellowing of the tips of twigs or the clear deposits of pitch between new bud clusters may be early signs of activity of this insect on Pinus spp. hosts. Mined needles will die and turn brown in color, which can be noticed in the summer. Initial areas of wounding are covered with resin-coated webbing. By the middle of the summer, the larvae move to the buds and burrow into them. Scaring is often caused. In August, feeding stops and tiny, black caterpillars overwinter in this area covered by the resin-coated webs.

• Fall Webworm 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 webbing, which becomes filled with leaf fragments, cast skins, and frass. Fully grown larvae are approximately an inch long and then wander from the webs and pupate in protected areas such as the leaf litter where they will remain for the winter. Monitor for silken webs on the branch tips which can be pruned out before they become extensively large. Webbing may first be seen on the south side of tree crowns. Webs become most obvious near the end of larval feeding and can persist for months afterwards. Larvae are feeding 3 to 4 weeks prior to webs becoming obvious. Small webs begin to appear in mid-July in Massachusetts, but are often not noticed until the fall.

• Four-Lined Plant Bug feeds on over 250 plant species, many of which are herbaceous. The four-lined plant bug overwinters as eggs which are inserted into the tender shoots or water sprouts of certain host plants. Females use their ovipositor to cut a slit in the tissue of the plant, into which the eggs are inserted. Egg hatch may occur in late April or May in Massachusetts. Nymphs develop over the course of approximately 30 days. Feeding injury from both the nymphs and adults causes black or brown disease-like spots to form on the foliage of numerous hosts. The injured areas may turn black or appear translucent. After a few weeks, the necrotic tissue may drop from the plant leaving small holes behind.
• Hemlock Looper collectively refers to two species of geometrid (inchworm; looper) caterpillars. Overwintered eggs hatch by late May or early June, at which time young larvae begin their messy feeding on host plant needles. Hemlock and balsam fir are preferred hosts.

• Hibiscus Sawfly larvae, likely Atomacera decepta, may be observed feeding on hibiscus hosts at this time. Sawfly larvae develop into wasp-like adults (Order: Hymenoptera) and therefore these “caterpillars” will not be managed by Bacillus thuringiensis var. kurstaki which is specific to the Lepidoptera (caterpillars that develop into moths or butterflies as adults). Reduced risk active ingredients such as spinosad are labelled for use against sawfly larvae. However, given that hibiscus are very attractive to pollinators, non-chemical management options such as hand picking and disposing of larvae, when possible, are best. Spinosad is toxic to pollinators until it dries.
  The hibiscus (mallow) sawfly adult female uses her ovipositor to cut slits into leaf surfaces to deposit her eggs. Larvae emerge from these eggs and begin by first feeding on leaf undersides when small, and then move to feed on leaf surfaces as they grow in size. Only large leaf veins may be left behind if the population is large enough. Larvae have been observed moving to the base of the plant to pupate. Adults emerge and in some locations in the US, multiple generations have been recorded per year. This insect is known in the mid-Atlantic and Midwest states, but was reported feeding on Hibiscus spp. in Connecticut in 2004 and 2005 and has previously been reported in Massachusetts. The timing of the life cycle of this insect, as well as how many generations occur per year in Massachusetts, however, is not fully understood. 
  Some research has shown that Hibiscus acetosella, H. aculeatus, and H. grandiflora seem to either exhibit some resistance to or tolerance of hibiscus sawfly feeding. In one study, all three had few if any eggs or larvae and were given the lowest damage rating among the species evaluated. This insect also does not feed on rose of Sharon or H. rosasinensis. It has, however, been reported to “voraciously” feed on H. moscheutos, H. palustris, H. militaris, and H. lasiocarpus.

• Honeylocust Spider Mite can cause light, yellow stippling on leaves which may be barely noticeable if the population is light. Heavy infestations cause distortion of newly emerging foliage and by July, all of the foliage on a severely infested tree may turn brown. Damage is similar to that of honeylocust plantbug. Stippling of infested foliage and canopy bronzing, stunted growth, and premature leaf drop may all occur on heavily infested trees. If damage occurs early enough in the season, the tree may refoliate. Honeylocust spider mite populations may be more severe on dry sites or when drought conditions occur.

• Imported Willow Leaf Beetle adults overwinter in loose bark or other sheltered areas near susceptible Salix and Populus spp. host plants. Adults are active and feed and lay tiny, yellow eggs in clusters on leaf undersides. Additional resources include an InsectXaminer episode about imported willow leaf beetle.

• Introduced Pine Sawfly adults of the second generation emerge from July to August. The first generation larvae may be present from May to August, and the second generation larvae from late July to early October. There is a great overlap in the generations, and throughout much of the growing season all life stages of the insect may be found on the trees at the same time, depending upon local variability. 

• Japanese Beetle adults have been reported active at the end of June in MA in 2024 (see scouting reports above). Adult beetles skeletonize the leaves of susceptible host plants, often feeding on roses, grapes, and shrubs first and moving to the foliage of trees as the season continues. Adults are typically active from late June to early August.

• Lily Leaf Beetle, while not a pest of trees and shrubs, can be an important insect found in ornamental landscapes. Bright red overwintered adult beetles mate and lay eggs by May. 250-450 eggs may be laid per female. Additional resources include an InsectXaminer episode about lily leaf beetle.
• Maple Leafcutter is native to the Northeast and parts of Canada. Look for flying adult moths starting in late May. Scout and visually search for blotch mines created by the caterpillars in June. Larvae cut out leaf disks and then skeletonize the upper leaf surface, creating a donut-shaped scar. Blotch mines are created in June, and may be difficult to see. Major damage is usually not noticed until late July/August, when the circular holes are apparent in the leaves after the caterpillars create their oval/circular "case."
• Mimosa Webworm has historically heavily attacked mimosa where it grows. The larvae (caterpillars) of this insect tie the foliage of their hosts together with silken strands and skeletonize the leaves. Injury to host plant leaves may be noticeable by early July in Massachusetts. Foliage can appear bronzed in color from the feeding. Webbing usually begins at the tops of trees. An entire tree may become covered in the webs created by these caterpillars. So much webbing can often make it difficult to assess the extent of the defoliation or damage caused on an individual host. Monitor susceptible hosts for caterpillar activity and webbing beginning in the end of June, early July.
• Mountain Ash Sawfly first generation eggs hatch by early-June and are present until early-August with second generation eggs hatching and larvae found in September. Larvae feed for approximately 3 weeks in groups - stripping branches of all of their foliage before moving on to the next. Larval feeding may begin in the crown of the tree, moving toward the lower branches later.

• Oak Spider Mite causes a bronzing or bleaching of the upper leaf surface, which may be very apparent by June. However, the damage caused by this insect relative is often not noticed until it peaks, usually by late July or early August. Monitor susceptible hosts in June, and look for the beginning of spider mite activity that may become more severe as seasonal temperatures rise. Scout the lower branches of larger host trees first, as they may be the first to be impacted, particularly those growing in hotter locations (ex. near impervious surfaces such as paved areas).

• Oriental Beetle adults are active from mid-June through early August in Massachusetts. Adult activity occurs in the evening and at night, so the feeding they do on certain flowers (daisy, roses, phlox, and petunia) may come as a surprise during the day as the insects themselves may not be seen by the observer. 

• Oystershell Scale eggs hatch from early May to mid-June. Second instar crawlers (immatures) are found from mid-June to late July. Adults from early August to late September.

• Pale Tussock Moth (Banded Tussock Moth) is an eastern United States species that feeds on the foliage of deciduous trees and shrubs. Adult moths are seen in June and July, with females laying egg masses on the underside of host plant leaves in July. The forewings of the adult moths are pale yellow-tan or cream-colored with a checkered pattern with darker bands; the thorax of the adult also possesses a pale orange stripe with thinner turquoise stripes on either side. Eggs hatch and caterpillars feed on host plant leaves beginning in mid-July. Caterpillars feed on the leaf tissue between leaf veins and may be seen resting on upper leaf surfaces. Caterpillars are yellow/brown/tan and hairy, and active until the end of September. Caterpillars have noticeably longer black and white hairs (lashes) extending from either end of the body.

• Peachtree Borer is a clearwing moth pest of ornamental trees and shrubs. In particular, those in the genus Prunus are most impacted. The larvae of this insect feed on the inner bark of the host plants near the root crown and are capable of girdling the tree. Larvae (caterpillars) are cream colored with brown heads. Once mature, following approximately 7 instar stages, caterpillars pupate in their tunnels and the adult moths emerge around early July (records from New York). Adult females lay 200-800 oval, reddish-brown, 1/2 mm long eggs on the trunk or lower branches of their host plants over a period of approximately 6 weeks. Eggs are laid in small groups. Newly hatched larvae of this species, unlike some other species of clearwing moths, are able to chew through the external bark to reach the phloem (Johnson and Lyon, 1991) where they feed.
• Pear Sawfly larvae feed on the foliage of cotoneaster, hawthorn, flowering fruit trees (including ornamental plum), and others. Young caterpillars begin their feeding as skeletonizers, which can lead to the leaf turning brown. Occasionally, completely browned leaves may drop prematurely from the host plant. A second generation of caterpillars feeds into late summer, and may cause defoliation. Often, the second generation population is larger and more damaging. Monitor for pear sawfly larval (caterpillar) feeding in June/July and again in August/September.
• Pine Needle Scale is historically a considerable native pest of pine and spruce species and is a serious pest of ornamental pines in the United States. Reddish colored eggs overwinter underneath the armored scale cover (test) of the female insect. Egg hatch occurs approximately in May and June and red-colored nymphs (immatures; crawlers) emerge from the scale coverings of the females and find a new location on the host plant needles to settle and begin feeding. The crawler stage may also be blown to new host plants on the wind. Depending upon geographic location, one or two generations of pine needle scales occur per year. If a second generation is present, second generation crawlers are present by late July through September. (Two generations per year occur in Massachusetts. More northerly locations may have a single generation per year.)
• Pine Sawflies in the genera Diprion and Neodiprion are conifer feeding sawflies that are found on a wide variety of different pine species. Larvae of these insects may feed on the foliage, mine buds, or bore into the pith of the shoots of their host plants. In addition to the European pine sawfly, introduced pine sawfly and redheaded pine sawfly are notable plant pests.
• Pine Webworm forms webs on the terminal twigs of the host plant, containing larvae, dead needles, and large amounts of brown frass by late June through July. The loosely constructed webs can be unsightly and typically the insect is not noticed until the feeding damage has been done and caterpillars are gone from their webs.
• Pitch Twig Moth is a clearwing moth species that will develop in the twigs of pine, particularly pitch pine, of the current year's growth. Eggs of this species are tiny, circular, and yellow when first laid by the adult female moth. Eggs hatch and caterpillars were present in Ohio by June. Early feeding by the caterpillars is completed at the needle bases for 1-2 weeks. Caterpillars molt at least once before then boring into the twigs and feeding, creating a nodule. After a month of feeding, the caterpillars move through the center of the twig and begin feeding on the pith. The feeding done by this insect causes ample resin (pitch) to leak from the initial feeding sites. Resin combined with frass form the characteristic nodule created by the activity of this insect. Nodules are typically found on the upper surfaces of the twigs.
• Polydrusus Weevil may refer to two non-native, introduced species of weevil in the genus Polydrusus which are potential pests of ornamentals, urban street trees, and occasionally fruit crops. Both Polydrusus formosus and P. impressifrons were introduced into North America from Europe in the early 1900's. Both are found in the northeastern United States. Adult weevils of these two species feed on the leaves and buds of some hardwood and fruit trees. Both have a brilliant green, iridescent color, with subtle differences to the black markings on the elytra (hardened wing covers). In both species, a single generation per year is known in New England. Adults emerge from the soil by late May/early June and feed on host plant buds or leaves through August.
• Potato Leafhopper is a Hemipteran pest with piercing-sucking mouthparts that feeds in the vascular tissue, such as the phloem, on the foliage and shoots of its host plants. The common name is misleading for those managing trees and shrubs, making this insect sound like something that is only a problem in vegetables. Both leaf surfaces of Norway and sugar maples, birch, apple, chestnut, and walnut may be impacted by the feeding of the potato leafhopper, particularly on vigorously growing trees. On maples, severe stunting, foliage damage, and multiple leaders developing is possible. This insect is primarily a problem in nursery settings. This insect migrates northward on the prevailing winds in the early summer, typically seen in the north in late May and early June. The overwintering capacity of this insect is something that should be monitored as climate change is experienced.
• Privet Thrips adult females lay their eggs on host plant leaves late in the spring, with several generations per year possible through the summer. The number of generations on a single plant may depend upon the food quality of the plant for the thrips following so many generations of feeding. Immature thrips (larvae) are slender and wingless and found with magnification primarily on leaf undersides. Adults are also tiny, 1 mm in length, with wings. The larvae and adults feed and cause chlorosis on host plant leaves, which may be visible to the naked eye as a dusty/gray color.
• Redheaded Pine Sawfly is a native insect that can be an important pest of ornamental and forest pines. Younger larvae feed on the outsides of the host plant needles. This results in shriveled, browned, and straw-like needles that remain attached to the hosts. Older caterpillars are capable of eating the entire needle. In certain parts of its range, the redheaded pine sawfly is capable of defoliating commercial pine stands, particularly during outbreak population years. Caterpillars will feed into the fall. Can be a very destructive defoliator of ornamental pines. During extended falls, or in milder climates (ex. Cape Cod), severe injury may occur in September and October.
• Rhododendron Borer is a tiny, native clearwing moth. Adult moth emergence may begin in May and last through July, depending upon local temperatures. After mating, adult females lay their eggs (up to 40 each) near locations of the host plant with defects or injury - particularly, branch crotches, pruning cuts, scars, or old larval feeding galleries. Eggs are tucked into these areas by the females, who perish shortly thereafter. Larvae hatch and chew their way to the inner bark, where they tunnel and feed and fill these tunnels with small, reddish frass pellets. By late fall, the larvae move to the sapwood to overwinter.
• Rose Chafer is a type of scarab beetle whose adults feed on ornamental trees and shrubs in a manner that is like the Japanese beetle (Popillia japonica). Adult rose chafers are also highly attracted to flowers, such as those of rose and peony. Adults emerge from the soil by June and live for approximately 30 days. Females lay their oval, shiny, and tiny eggs primarily in grassy areas, as deep as 6 inches in the soil.
• Roundheaded Apple Tree Borer adult emergence occurs by June, with egg laying continuing through August. Visually scouting for adults may be difficult because activity occurs at night. Monitor susceptible hosts for signs of damage from newly hatched larvae near the base of the tree. Look for darkened areas stained with sap flow. Look for reddish-brown sawdust-like frass that has been expelled by larger larvae through the bark of the tree and may pile up at the base of the trunk or ground nearby.
• Satin Moth was introduced from Europe or Asia and first reported between Boston, MA and Hampton, New Hampshire in 1920. This insect is said to overwinter in the third instar (caterpillars pass through seven instars), either individually or in small groups. This occurs in a silken, cocoon-like bag attached to host plant trunks and branches. In the springtime, caterpillars leave their areas of hibernation to feed on nearby leaves. Fully grown caterpillars may be up to 2 inches long. Caterpillars spin a thin cocoon between leaves or between exfoliating or thick bark crevices. Pupae are dark brown/black and often in a thin, loose silken sack. Pupae also sport brightly colored, yellow setae (hairs) that make them quite attractive. Pupation begins by the end of June and takes approximately 10 days to complete. Shortly thereafter, moths emerge, and females lay egg masses covered in a frothy, white material from July – mid-August. Eggs hatch sometime in August, and larvae will conduct feeding in August and September.
• Taxus Bud Mite is a species of eriophyid mite that is sometimes a significant pest of yew (Taxus spp.). Twigs and buds of the host plant are impacted. The taxus bud mite causes deformed buds and needles on its hosts. Attacked buds may sometimes perish following enlargement and "blasting" (wither and fall or abort from an otherwise healthy plant). Secondary microorganisms can cause decay of the damaged buds. Heavily infested buds will not grow in the spring. Lighter infestations may result in distorted needles and shoots. By late summer and fall, feeding and reproduction of the mites occurs.

• Taxus Mealybug first instar nymphs are reported as the overwintering life stage in New Jersey. They may be found in bark crevices on the host plant. In April and May few live mealybugs are found. However, by mid-June the population may increase considerably. Adult female taxus mealybugs are present from June to August and give birth to live young in the early summer. Nymphs and adults have been reported in Massachusetts in June, but no eggs or young nymphs were seen at that time in prior studies.

• Twospotted Spider Mite feeds and reproduces as soon as warm temperatures allow, from early in the spring through the fall. Warm or hot conditions favor their development, increased feeding, and reproduction. Magnification is needed to visually detect twospotted spider mites. At least a 10-15X hand lens is required. The undersides of host plant leaves can be examined for the mites themselves or their shed or cast skins, as well as the fine webbing left behind by spider mites. 

• Viburnum Leaf Beetle eggs hatch around May and young larvae are approximately 1 mm in length and greenish yellow in color. They may also be off-white, and they lack spots. Larger larvae may appear yellowish-brown or green with black spots and may grow up to ½ inch in length. Larvae may be found anywhere on the leaves and usually in groups. When young, larvae feed on the undersides of the leaves. As they grow larger, they may feed on the upper surface. Larval development may take approximately 8-10 weeks to complete, and 3 larval instars are reported. Viburnum leaf beetle larval feeding and associated defoliation on plants was very apparent (see photos from 5/24/2025). Pupae are yellowish and are found in the soil beneath the host plant. Adults emerge around the middle of July and are brown, smaller than the largest larvae (approximately ¼ inch), and will also feed on the leaves. Adults are present in the landscape until the first hard frost.

• White Prunicola Scale (Pseudaulacaspis prunicola) is a temperate species of armored scale. It is so very closely related to and easily confused with the white peach scale (P. pentagona) that for a very long time, scientists thought each was a single species. Mated adult females are the overwintering life stage. In northeastern Pennsylvania, egg laying began in mid-May, and again in late-July, with crawlers shortly thereafter. Each female laid approximately 27-78 eggs. In points north of Pennsylvania, there are typically 2 generations per year, occurring approximately in early June and early August in central New England.

• Willow Flea Weevil is known to occur in Massachusetts and other cooler areas of North America. Adults overwinter in sheltered areas, such as the leaflitter and under debris. Adults emerge as spring temperatures warm and feed on host plant buds, and eventually on the tips of new shoots and host plant foliage. Adult weevils chew tiny, circular pits in the host plant parts that it feeds on. Visually search for the circular pits on the upper surface of host plant foliage created by the adults any time between May and August. Search for blotch mines in host plant leaves approximately in June. 

Beneficials/Non-Pests:

• Pollinators: On bright, sunny days many pollinators can be seen visiting flowers – sources of nectar and pollen. While milkweed is often thought of for its association with the famous monarch caterpillar, it can be a popular plant with many different insect pollinators as well! Native milkweeds like butterfly weed or Asclepias tuberosa can be an attractive option. Remember, butterflies are not the only insect pollinators out there. Flies, beetles, bees and wasps, and moths are all important pollinators in Massachusetts!

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

Weeds

The Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR) will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, from 1pm to 2pm (EDT), to hear testimony from the public regarding the intent to restrict entry of the following plants into Massachusetts:

• Black Alder (Alnus glutinosa), designated as Invasive
• Chinese Silvergrass, Eulalia (Miscanthus sinensis), designated as Invasive
• Jetbead (Rhodotypos scandens), designated as Likely Invasive

The meeting will be held online via Zoom. Written testimony will also be accepted until 5pm on Friday, July 25, 2025. Learn more online about the hearing details including the Zoom meeting link and how to provide written comments.

An invasive plant, Oriental bittersweet (Celastrus orbiculatus) has passed its flowering period and entered the early fruit-development stage. At this point in the growing season management with herbicide treatments can begin. The growth habit of Oriental bittersweet can be as a tree-climbing vine, a sprawling ground cover up to 6 feet high or a combination of both. The growth habit will determine the herbicide used and application method. Vines are best treated with cut-stem applications of triclopyr (ester formulations are preferred over amine formulations) and glyphosate. Cut-stem applications should be applied immediately after the stem is cut. For oriental bittersweet growing as a sprawling ground cover, a foliar treatment of triclopyr (ester formulations are preferred over amine formulations) is the best choice. Foliar applications of glyphosate are not as effective as applications of triclopyr.

White clover is starting to flower which indicates that the effective treatment period has begun. Clover growing in landscape beds can be treated with a directed, spot-spray of glyphosate or glufosinate. The best herbicides for management in turf are dicamba, clopyralid, fluroxypyr, MCPP, mesotrione and quinclorac. Broadleaf combination products that contain one or more of these herbicides will provide effective control. Note that products that contain clopyralid are not labeled for use on residential turf. Broadleaf herbicide applications should not be made if turfgrasses are drought and/or heat stressed as turf injury may occur.

Postemergence herbicide applications for annual grasses (crabgrass, yellow foxtail, barnyardgrass) control: As the growing season continues into July, the efficacy of preemergence herbicide application for annual grass control can be determined now, and focus should shift toward postemergence control. The forecast for rain and warm weather will move annual grasses along. Effective monitoring and scouting will determine the efficacy of preemergence applications and the proper timing of postemergence herbicides for annual crabgrass control. Some postemergence herbicide products require a surfactant to provide effective control. The type of surfactant is stated on the product label and should be used with these applications. Below is a table of postemergence herbicides for summer annual grass control. Dithiopyr has preemergence and postemergence activity on crabgrass. These characteristics will allow for later than normal preemergence applications. For example, if the window for other preemergence herbicides has passed and small crabgrass seedlings are observed, a sprayable application of dithiopyr will provide early postemergence control and preemergence residual control from that point forward.

Japanese knotweed (Fallopia japonica): Do not attempt to control Japanese knotweed now, as herbicide applications are not effective in the early part of the growing season. Watch upcoming Landscape Messages for treatment information as we progress through the season. Japanese knotweed commonly grows is wet areas (riparian areas, wetlands, pond and lakeshores, etc.) and the management of this invasive plant may invoke 310 CMR (Massachusetts Wetland Protection Act). Now is a good time to reach out to the Conservation Commission in the municipality to determine how 310 CMR regulations might have an impact on your management project and have the permit process completed before application time.

Yellow nutsedge (Cyperus esculentus) will be emerging soon. Herbicide application should be in full swing as we approach the middle of July.

A member of the lily plant family (Liliaceae), star-of-Bethlehem (Ornithogalum umbellatum), is currently apparent in some turf and landscape areas. Visit our website for photos and characteristics. Star-of Bethlehem can be difficult to control but can be managed with glyphosate. Several non-chemical, burn-down herbicides will desiccate the leaves and over time will weaken the bulb of this weed. Star-of Bethlehem is also very susceptible to the broadleaf turf herbicide sulfentrazone. Sulfentrazone is found in several 2-, 3- and 4-way broadleaf turf herbicide combinations and in combination with carfentrazone in the herbicide Dismiss NXT. Sulfentrazone alone can be found in several post-patent, generic products. Consult with your distributor about the product options available.

Reported by Randy Prostak, Weed Specialist, UMass Extension Landscape, Nursery, & Urban Forestry Program

Additional Resources

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Diagnostic Services

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 the Plant  Diagnostic Laboratory web site.

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 lab provides test results and recommendations that lead to the wise and economical use of soils and soil amendments. For more information, including current turn-around times, visit the UMass Soil and Plant Nutrient Testing Laboratory web site. The lab is currently accepting orders for Routine Soil Analysis (including optional Organic Matter, Soluble Salts, and Nitrate testing), Particle Size Analysis, Pre-Sidedress Nitrate (PSNT), Total Sorbed Metals, Total Carbon, Total Nitrogen and Soilless Media. The lab is also accepting samples for Plant Tissue analysis, including macro and micronutrients, total carbon, and total nitrogen. Check for current turnaround time. Please plan for the fact that date of receipt in the lab is affected by weekends, holidays, shipping time, and time for UMass Campus Mail to deliver samples to the lab.

Tick Testing - The UMass Center for Agriculture, Food, and the Environment provides a list of potential tick identification and testing options on our website.

Acknowledgements: UMass Extension gratefully acknowledges the support of the following funding sources for the production of the Landscape Message –

• The Massachusetts Nursery and Landscape Association Fund
• The Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation
• Stakeholders like you! The Landscape Message is partially supported by educational program user fees and support from readers.