Nursery Pest Management Calendar Kris Braman University of Georgia.

Nursery Pest Nursery Pest Management CalendarManagement Calendar

Kris BramanKris Braman

University of GeorgiaUniversity of Georgia

The Nursery Pest Management The Nursery Pest Management CalendarCalendar

Provides optimal scouting and treatment timing for Provides optimal scouting and treatment timing for more than two dozen key insect and mite pests of more than two dozen key insect and mite pests of nursery plantsnursery plants

Provides a pest identification guide and discusses Provides a pest identification guide and discusses biology and management biology and management

Is organized by major plant groups and by individual Is organized by major plant groups and by individual pest or pest grouppest or pest group

Provides an identification guide for beneficial insects Provides an identification guide for beneficial insects in the nurseryin the nursery

Updated chemical control options can be found at Updated chemical control options can be found at CAES web site http://www.ent.uga.edu/pmh/CAES web site http://www.ent.uga.edu/pmh/

Nursery Pest Management CalendarNursery Pest Management Calendar Plants Plants

Azalea/RhododendronAzalea/Rhododendron BoxwoodBoxwood Butterfly bushButterfly bush CameliaCamelia CoreopsisCoreopsis ColumbineColumbine CrapemyrtleCrapemyrtle

DogwoodDogwood GardeniaGardenia HollyHolly JuniperJuniper LantanaLantana MapleMaple OakOak OenotheraOenothera

Pests in the CalendarPests in the Calendar

Azalea lace bugAzalea lace bug Azalea leaf minerAzalea leaf miner Southern red miteSouthern red mite Cranberry rootwormCranberry rootworm Strawberry rootwormStrawberry rootworm Azalea bark scaleAzalea bark scale Azalea caterpillarAzalea caterpillar Boxwood leafminerBoxwood leafminer Boxwood psyllidBoxwood psyllid

Two spotted spider miteTwo spotted spider mite Tea scaleTea scale AlticaAltica flea beetles flea beetles Japanese beetlesJapanese beetles Asian ambrosia beetleAsian ambrosia beetle Dogwood borerDogwood borer Cottony maple scaleCottony maple scale Dogwood twig borerDogwood twig borer Dogwood clubgall midgeDogwood clubgall midge

Pests in the CalendarPests in the Calendar

Citrus whiteflyCitrus whitefly Cottony cushion scaleCottony cushion scale Holly leafminerHolly leafminer Euonymus scaleEuonymus scale Florida wax scaleFlorida wax scale Two lined spittlebugTwo lined spittlebug Spruce spider miteSpruce spider mite Two spotted spider miteTwo spotted spider mite

Juniper scaleJuniper scale Flat headed apple tree Flat headed apple tree

borerborer AphidsAphids Orange striped Orange striped

oakwormoakworm Obscure scaleObscure scale Lecanium scaleLecanium scale Maple bladder gallMaple bladder gall

Key Pests of Azalea/RhododendronKey Pests of Azalea/Rhododendron

Azalea lace bugAzalea lace bug Azalea leaf minerAzalea leaf miner Southern red miteSouthern red mite Cranberry rootwormCranberry rootworm Strawberry rootwormStrawberry rootworm Azalea bark scaleAzalea bark scale Azalea caterpillarAzalea caterpillar

Azalea Lace Bug (Azalea Lace Bug (Stephanitis pyrioidesStephanitis pyrioides))

Azalea lace bug adult

Azalea lace bug eggs

Azalea Lace Bug (Azalea Lace Bug (Stephanitis Stephanitis pyrioidespyrioides) )

Adults are 1/8 inch long. The transparent wings are held flat on the back. Adults are 1/8 inch long. The transparent wings are held flat on the back.

Their wings are lacy with two grayish-brown cross-bands connected in the Their wings are lacy with two grayish-brown cross-bands connected in the middle. Nymphs are mostly black and spiny. The flask-shaped eggs are middle. Nymphs are mostly black and spiny. The flask-shaped eggs are partially embedded in leaf tissue and often are covered with a black tar-like partially embedded in leaf tissue and often are covered with a black tar-like secretion. There are four generations a year. Eggs overwinter in leaf tissue. secretion. There are four generations a year. Eggs overwinter in leaf tissue. Lace bug adults and nymphs live and feed on the underside of leaves. Lace bug adults and nymphs live and feed on the underside of leaves.

Scout for eggs in February and look for the first signs of damage on plants Scout for eggs in February and look for the first signs of damage on plants in full sun or in protected areas beginning in March and continuing in full sun or in protected areas beginning in March and continuing throughout the summer. Look for white stippling on older leaves. Turn throughout the summer. Look for white stippling on older leaves. Turn stippled leaves over to find lace bug stages and black fecal spots. Examine stippled leaves over to find lace bug stages and black fecal spots. Examine lace bug eggs with a hand lens for signs of parasitism (a round hole in the lace bug eggs with a hand lens for signs of parasitism (a round hole in the top of the egg) and look for predators. top of the egg) and look for predators.

Time insecticide applications for the presence of the first generation Time insecticide applications for the presence of the first generation nymphsnymphs

Parasitic wasp that attacks and kills Parasitic wasp that attacks and kills lace bug eggslace bug eggs

Parasitized lace bug egg next to leaf midrib. Wasp has chewed a circularhole in the lace bug eggand emerged

Mymarid wasp next toAn azalea leaf hair

Azalea plant bug adult and nymph, a predator that feeds on lace bugs, thrips, other small insectsand pollen

Southern Red Mite Southern Red Mite (Oligonychus ilicis)(Oligonychus ilicis)

Adults are ½ mm long, oval, purplish, or reddish, with eight legs. The red Adults are ½ mm long, oval, purplish, or reddish, with eight legs. The red eggs overwinter on the undersides of leaves. There are several generations eggs overwinter on the undersides of leaves. There are several generations each year. Most activity occurs in spring and fall. each year. Most activity occurs in spring and fall.

This imported spider mite has a wide host range, but prefers broad-leaved This imported spider mite has a wide host range, but prefers broad-leaved evergreens in the Ericaceae and Aquifoliaceae. It is common on azalea, evergreens in the Ericaceae and Aquifoliaceae. It is common on azalea, camelia, rhododendron, mountain laurel, holly, rose, viburnum, firethorn, camelia, rhododendron, mountain laurel, holly, rose, viburnum, firethorn, and yew. and yew.

Examine plants closely for signs of stippling and the various mite stages on Examine plants closely for signs of stippling and the various mite stages on the lower and upper leaf surfaces of broadleaved evergreens in early spring the lower and upper leaf surfaces of broadleaved evergreens in early spring and the fall. When stippling is noticed, tap leaves over white paper to and the fall. When stippling is noticed, tap leaves over white paper to dislodge and count mites, as well as the beneficial insects and predaceous dislodge and count mites, as well as the beneficial insects and predaceous mites. Predaceous mites have longer legs than the southern red mite and mites. Predaceous mites have longer legs than the southern red mite and move much faster. Look for red overwintering eggs on the lower surface of move much faster. Look for red overwintering eggs on the lower surface of leaves from November through early spring. leaves from November through early spring.

Application of a dormant oil to the lower surface of leaves when Application of a dormant oil to the lower surface of leaves when overwintering eggs are numerous will help reduce spring populations. In overwintering eggs are numerous will help reduce spring populations. In light infestations, the use of a horticultural oil or insecticidal soap will light infestations, the use of a horticultural oil or insecticidal soap will control these mites with minimal impact on beneficial organisms. When control these mites with minimal impact on beneficial organisms. When heavy infestations of mites are present, the application of residual miticides heavy infestations of mites are present, the application of residual miticides often is necessaryoften is necessary

Southern Red MiteSouthern Red Mite

Azalea Leafminer (Azalea Leafminer (Caloptilia Caloptilia azaleellaazaleella))

   Adult moths are about 3/8 inch long with wings folded. They are Adult moths are about 3/8 inch long with wings folded. They are

yellowish brown with purple markings on the wings and stand at a yellowish brown with purple markings on the wings and stand at a 60 angle when at rest. Mature larvae are about ½ inch long and 60 angle when at rest. Mature larvae are about ½ inch long and yellowish brown. There are two generations a year. Pupae yellowish brown. There are two generations a year. Pupae overwinter in leaf mines (tunnels the larvae create when they feed overwinter in leaf mines (tunnels the larvae create when they feed on tissue between leaf surfaces). Look for blotch mines in April or on tissue between leaf surfaces). Look for blotch mines in April or May. Curled leaf tips in June indicate completion of the first May. Curled leaf tips in June indicate completion of the first generation. Second generation blotch mines begin in July. Shake generation. Second generation blotch mines begin in July. Shake plants in late June and August to make adults fly and to estimate plants in late June and August to make adults fly and to estimate their numbers. Treat in May if numerous developing blotch mines their numbers. Treat in May if numerous developing blotch mines are observed. Evaluate the second generation in July and retreat if are observed. Evaluate the second generation in July and retreat if needed.needed.

Azalea Leafminer (Azalea Leafminer (Caloptilia Caloptilia azaleellaazaleella))

Azalea bark scaleAzalea bark scale

Plants may appear Plants may appear yellow and covered yellow and covered with black sooty moldwith black sooty mold

insects on twigs insects on twigs appear cottony or appear cottony or waxywaxy

Treat crawlers in late Treat crawlers in late April-MayApril-May

prune out infested prune out infested plant partsplant parts

Azalea caterpillarAzalea caterpillar

Red to brown with Red to brown with white and yellow stripes white and yellow stripes when smallwhen small

full grown have a red full grown have a red head and prolegs with head and prolegs with white stripeswhite stripes

chemical control most chemical control most effective on small effective on small caterpillars caterpillars

Cranberry rootwormCranberry rootworm

Small shiny black-green Small shiny black-green beetlesbeetles

Feed at night and hide Feed at night and hide in litter during dayin litter during day

Remove litter and Remove litter and weeds from areaweeds from area

Usually most common Usually most common in dense shadein dense shade

Typically a Spring pestTypically a Spring pest

Strawberry RootwormStrawberry Rootworm

Strawberry rootworm, Strawberry rootworm, Paria Paria fragariaefragariae

The strawberry rootworm, The strawberry rootworm, Paria fragariaeParia fragariae, is , is a pest of azaleas in production nurseries. a pest of azaleas in production nurseries. Damage from the adult results in holes in the Damage from the adult results in holes in the leaves which are unsightly. Current control leaves which are unsightly. Current control methods include spraying the foliage to control methods include spraying the foliage to control adults with chlorpyrifos or carbaryl and adults with chlorpyrifos or carbaryl and drenching the pots to control larvae with drenching the pots to control larvae with acephate or bifenthrin. acephate or bifenthrin.

Key Pests of BoxwoodKey Pests of Boxwood

Boxwood leafminerBoxwood leafminer Two spotted spider miteTwo spotted spider mite Boxwood psyllidBoxwood psyllid Indian wax scaleIndian wax scale European fruit lecaniumEuropean fruit lecanium Armored scales (greedy, oleander, oystershell)Armored scales (greedy, oleander, oystershell)

Twospotted Spider Mite Twospotted Spider Mite (Tretranychus (Tretranychus urticaeurticae))

Twospotted Spider Mite Twospotted Spider Mite (Tretranychus (Tretranychus urticaeurticae))

Adults are about 1/7 mm long, a little larger than a period on a page. They have one Adults are about 1/7 mm long, a little larger than a period on a page. They have one oval body segment with eight legs. They are greenish-yellow with a black spot on oval body segment with eight legs. They are greenish-yellow with a black spot on each side of the body. Eggs are white to yellow. Reddish-orange adult females each side of the body. Eggs are white to yellow. Reddish-orange adult females overwinter in bark cracks. overwinter in bark cracks.

Spider mites have a very broad host range. They feed on conifers (see spruce spider Spider mites have a very broad host range. They feed on conifers (see spruce spider mite on Juniper), deciduous trees and shrubs, as well as herbaceous plants. mite on Juniper), deciduous trees and shrubs, as well as herbaceous plants.

Spider mites suck leaf juices, causing minute white-to-yellow stipples to appear. Spider mites suck leaf juices, causing minute white-to-yellow stipples to appear. When large spider mite populations feed, the stipples coalesce and leaves may turn When large spider mite populations feed, the stipples coalesce and leaves may turn white to yellow to grayish-brown and then die. Some plants are particularly white to yellow to grayish-brown and then die. Some plants are particularly susceptible to spider mite toxins, and even low populations may cause leaves to die. susceptible to spider mite toxins, and even low populations may cause leaves to die.

Look for early signs of stippling with the beginning of hot summer weather. Look for early signs of stippling with the beginning of hot summer weather. Examine the underside of damaged leaves or tap them over white paper and look Examine the underside of damaged leaves or tap them over white paper and look for spider mites with two spots on the body. Also look for predators, such as for spider mites with two spots on the body. Also look for predators, such as phytoseiid mites and lady beetles, and note their relative abundance in relation to phytoseiid mites and lady beetles, and note their relative abundance in relation to the number of mites present.the number of mites present.

In dry, hot, sunny locations, this spider mite may produce one generation a week. In dry, hot, sunny locations, this spider mite may produce one generation a week. Use horticultural oil or insecticidal soap sprays for low mite populations to Use horticultural oil or insecticidal soap sprays for low mite populations to conserve any beneficials present. When damage becomes objectionable, mite conserve any beneficials present. When damage becomes objectionable, mite populations are high, and there are not beneficials, consider using a residual populations are high, and there are not beneficials, consider using a residual miticide spray. Reevaluate in one weekmiticide spray. Reevaluate in one week

Key Pests of BuddleiaKey Pests of Buddleia

Two spotted spider miteTwo spotted spider mite

Two spotted spider miteTwo spotted spider mite

37 37 BuddleiaBuddleia species and species and cultivars evaluatedcultivars evaluated

B. fallowiana B. fallowiana ‘Alba’ ‘Alba’ and and B. davidii x B. B. davidii x B. fallowiana fallowiana ‘Cornwall ‘Cornwall Blue’ highly resistant to Blue’ highly resistant to mitesmites

Key Pests of CameliaKey Pests of Camelia

Tea ScaleTea Scale Southern Red MiteSouthern Red Mite

Tea scale

Scale on camelia

Key Pests of CoreopsisKey Pests of Coreopsis

Leaf beetles, Leaf beetles, Phaedon desotonisPhaedon desotonis These beetles are late winter through spring These beetles are late winter through spring

pests. Beetles can build up large numbers pests. Beetles can build up large numbers before being noticed. Larvae and adults feed before being noticed. Larvae and adults feed on foliage and flower buds.on foliage and flower buds.

Leaf beetle larvae feeding on foliageof lance leaf coreopsis

Leaf beetle adults begin feeding on coreopsis

Beetles are gregarious feeders and can defoliate plants rapidly

Coreopsis rosea defoliated by leaf beetles

A predaceous stink bug feeding on a leaf beetle larva on coreopsis

Key Pests of ColumbineKey Pests of Columbine

Columbine leafminersColumbine leafminers

A. canadensis is less susceptible to leafminers

Hawthorne lace bug

Eggs

Pests of CotoneasterPests of Cotoneaster

Key Pests of CrapemyrtleKey Pests of Crapemyrtle

Crape myrtle aphidCrape myrtle aphid Japanese beetleJapanese beetle Asian ambrosia beetleAsian ambrosia beetle AlticaAltica flea beetle flea beetle

PestPest Winter Winter

Dec-Dec-FebFeb

SpringSpring

Mar-MayMar-May

SummerSummer

Jun-AugJun-Aug

FallFall

Sep-NovSep-Nov

CrapemyrtleCrapemyrtle

aphidaphidSS

Ambrosia Ambrosia beetlebeetle

S PSS PS SC PSC P

Japanese Japanese beetlesbeetles

SS

Altica Altica flea flea beetlesbeetles

SS

Crapemyrtle Pest Management Calendar

Japanese Beetle Japanese Beetle (Popillia japonica)(Popillia japonica)

Adults are nearly ½ inch long, broadly oval, thick bodied, with coppery Adults are nearly ½ inch long, broadly oval, thick bodied, with coppery grown wing covers and a metallic green body. Mature larvae are nearly 1 grown wing covers and a metallic green body. Mature larvae are nearly 1 inch long and white, with brown heads. They resemble several other scarab inch long and white, with brown heads. They resemble several other scarab beetle larvae, but may be identified by the shape of the raster (an area of beetle larvae, but may be identified by the shape of the raster (an area of bare spots, hairs, and spines on the underside of the last abdominal bare spots, hairs, and spines on the underside of the last abdominal segment). There is one generation a year. Larvae overwinter in soil. segment). There is one generation a year. Larvae overwinter in soil.

Adults of this imported scarab beetle feed on the flowers and leaves of Adults of this imported scarab beetle feed on the flowers and leaves of many plants. Preferred plants include rose, crapemyrtle, maples, sycamore, many plants. Preferred plants include rose, crapemyrtle, maples, sycamore, birch, cottonwood, linden, mountain ash, and elms. birch, cottonwood, linden, mountain ash, and elms.

Look for adults on preferred hosts from early June through August. Look for adults on preferred hosts from early June through August. Weekly application of residual or contact insecticides to host plants in June Weekly application of residual or contact insecticides to host plants in June through July will provide only partial adult control. Traps usually are through July will provide only partial adult control. Traps usually are counterproductive and most often call in more beetles than they trap. Use counterproductive and most often call in more beetles than they trap. Use traps to time insecticide application for adults. Do not use traps for control. traps to time insecticide application for adults. Do not use traps for control.

Japanese beetle

Crapemyrtle AphidsCrapemyrtle Aphids

Asian ambrosia beetleAdult flight peaks occur in late winter and early spring

Altica Altica flea beetlesflea beetles

Often attack susceptible crape myrtles In the Spring

Key Pests of DogwoodKey Pests of Dogwood

Dogwood borerDogwood borer Dogwood twig borerDogwood twig borer Dogwood clubgall midgeDogwood clubgall midge Cottony maple scaleCottony maple scale

Dogwood Borer (Dogwood Borer (Synanthedon scitulaSynanthedon scitula) )

The adults are clearwing moths about 3/8 inch long. They have two The adults are clearwing moths about 3/8 inch long. They have two

gold bands on a bluish-black abdomen. The larva grows to ½ inch gold bands on a bluish-black abdomen. The larva grows to ½ inch long and are white with a brown head and have two reddish-brown long and are white with a brown head and have two reddish-brown spots on the back, near the head. There is one generation a year. spots on the back, near the head. There is one generation a year. Larvae overwinter under bark. Adult emergence peaks around early Larvae overwinter under bark. Adult emergence peaks around early to mid-May, but occurs continually from April to October because to mid-May, but occurs continually from April to October because eggs are laid for several months. eggs are laid for several months.

Look for brown frass around wounds and bark cracks. Remove Look for brown frass around wounds and bark cracks. Remove loose bark with a knife. Larvae may be found in short tunnels under loose bark with a knife. Larvae may be found in short tunnels under bark near wounds. bark near wounds.

An early April application of a long residual insecticide to the bark An early April application of a long residual insecticide to the bark should prevent infestation. An additional application may be should prevent infestation. An additional application may be necessary in late May. Kousa dogwood appears resistant to this necessary in late May. Kousa dogwood appears resistant to this borer.borer.

Dogwood borerDogwood borer

Cottony Maple Scale (Cottony Maple Scale (Pulvinaria Pulvinaria innumerabilisinnumerabilis))

Adult females are about 3/16 inch long. They are black, flat, Adult females are about 3/16 inch long. They are black, flat, and oval. The 1/4-inch white cottony ovisac, or egg sac, is and oval. The 1/4-inch white cottony ovisac, or egg sac, is deposited on bark. Crawlers appear in June and immatures in deposited on bark. Crawlers appear in June and immatures in summer on the underside of leaves. There is one generation a summer on the underside of leaves. There is one generation a year. Immatures overwinter on twigs. Preferred hosts include year. Immatures overwinter on twigs. Preferred hosts include maple, elm, hawthorn, dogwood, sycamore, poplar, and linden. maple, elm, hawthorn, dogwood, sycamore, poplar, and linden.

Look for white ovisacs on bark in early spring. During the Look for white ovisacs on bark in early spring. During the summer, look on underside of leaves for flat, yellow summer, look on underside of leaves for flat, yellow immatures sucking sap from leaf veins where honeydew and immatures sucking sap from leaf veins where honeydew and sooty mold are found on the host plant. sooty mold are found on the host plant.

Apply dormant oils to bark to kill overwintering nymphs. Apply dormant oils to bark to kill overwintering nymphs. Horticultural oil or insecticidal soap can be applied to leaves Horticultural oil or insecticidal soap can be applied to leaves during the summer to control crawlersduring the summer to control crawlers

Cottony Maple Scale (Cottony Maple Scale (Pulvinaria Pulvinaria innumerabilisinnumerabilis))

Key Pests of GardeniaKey Pests of Gardenia

Citrus whiteflyCitrus whitefly Armored scales (tea, greedy and oleander)Armored scales (tea, greedy and oleander) Cottony cushion scaleCottony cushion scale

Whitefly larvae and an adult

Whiteflies Whiteflies

Adult whiteflies range from 1/16 to 1/8 inch in length. Most species Adult whiteflies range from 1/16 to 1/8 inch in length. Most species resemble tiny white moths. Identification is easiest using the scale insect-resemble tiny white moths. Identification is easiest using the scale insect-like pupal stage. like pupal stage.

Whiteflies have numerous hosts, including rhododendron and azalea, ash, Whiteflies have numerous hosts, including rhododendron and azalea, ash, dogwood, sycamore, sweetgum, honey-and black locust, barberries, dogwood, sycamore, sweetgum, honey-and black locust, barberries, redbud, roses, and herbaceous plants like hibiscus and verbena, among redbud, roses, and herbaceous plants like hibiscus and verbena, among others. others.

When honeydew, sooty mold, or leaf yellowing is observed, examine the When honeydew, sooty mold, or leaf yellowing is observed, examine the underside of leaves for feeding adult and immature stages of whiteflies. underside of leaves for feeding adult and immature stages of whiteflies. Ants foraging on leaves may indicate the presence of whiteflies. Ants foraging on leaves may indicate the presence of whiteflies.

Rake up and destroy fallen leaves. If honeydew or damage are Rake up and destroy fallen leaves. If honeydew or damage are objectionable, spray the underside of leaves with soap or oil to conserve objectionable, spray the underside of leaves with soap or oil to conserve beneficials. Remove heavily infested leaves. Predators and parasites beneficials. Remove heavily infested leaves. Predators and parasites usually keep these pests at low levels in the landscape. In the nursery usually keep these pests at low levels in the landscape. In the nursery application of systemic insecticides or IGRs may be required. application of systemic insecticides or IGRs may be required.

Tea scale

Cottony cushion scale damage on Cottony cushion scale damage on pittosporumpittosporum

Vedalia lady beetle larva and adultVedalia lady beetle larva and adultfeeding on cottony cushion scalefeeding on cottony cushion scale

Vedalia beetle larva

Cottony cushion scale female with eggs

Key Pests of HollyKey Pests of Holly

Holly leafminersHolly leafminers Florida wax scaleFlorida wax scale Southern red miteSouthern red mite Two lined spittlebugTwo lined spittlebug Armored scales (tea, oleander, greedy, Armored scales (tea, oleander, greedy,

euonymus, pit)euonymus, pit)

Holly Leafminer Holly Leafminer (Phytomyza ilicis)(Phytomyza ilicis)

Adult flies are about 1/8 inch long and black. The larvae are 1/8 inch Adult flies are about 1/8 inch long and black. The larvae are 1/8 inch long yellow maggots that tunnel through leaves, creating serpentine long yellow maggots that tunnel through leaves, creating serpentine mine. Eggs are usually deposited in the midrib or leaf margin and mine. Eggs are usually deposited in the midrib or leaf margin and early mining occurs there. There is one generation a year. Larvae early mining occurs there. There is one generation a year. Larvae overwinter in mines. Hard, late frosts extend adult egg-laying overwinter in mines. Hard, late frosts extend adult egg-laying activity and increase the pest population. activity and increase the pest population.

Summer to fall mining occurs in the midrib. The obvious, linear, Summer to fall mining occurs in the midrib. The obvious, linear, yellowish-green mine in the leaf surface occurs the following spring. yellowish-green mine in the leaf surface occurs the following spring. Several mines per leaf cause premature leaf drop. Adult females of Several mines per leaf cause premature leaf drop. Adult females of this imported fly puncture tender new holly leaves to feed on plant this imported fly puncture tender new holly leaves to feed on plant juices. juices.

In heavy infestation, use systemics for larvae in March of late In heavy infestation, use systemics for larvae in March of late summer. Contact insecticides may be used for adults in early May, summer. Contact insecticides may be used for adults in early May, but this is the least desirable technique because beneficial parasites but this is the least desirable technique because beneficial parasites may be killedmay be killed

Two lined spittlebugTwo lined spittlebug

Twolined Spittlebug Twolined Spittlebug (Prosapia (Prosapia bicincta)bicincta)

Adults are about 1/4 to ½ inch long, smoky brown to black in color, Adults are about 1/4 to ½ inch long, smoky brown to black in color, broadly oval, convex, with prominent eyes. They have two bright orange broadly oval, convex, with prominent eyes. They have two bright orange stripes across their wings. Adults sometimes are called froghoppers. stripes across their wings. Adults sometimes are called froghoppers. Nymphs are smaller, usually pale greenish-yellow, and covered by frothy Nymphs are smaller, usually pale greenish-yellow, and covered by frothy bubbles called spittle. Two generations occur per year. bubbles called spittle. Two generations occur per year.

The immature stages are found in turfgrass and adults may be found on The immature stages are found in turfgrass and adults may be found on numerous woody ornamentals, especially hollies. numerous woody ornamentals, especially hollies.

Look for active adults beginning in early summer. The second generation Look for active adults beginning in early summer. The second generation of adults usually appears in August/September. If spittlebugs are coming of adults usually appears in August/September. If spittlebugs are coming from surrounding turf, don't allow a heavy thatch layer to accumulate in from surrounding turf, don't allow a heavy thatch layer to accumulate in the turf. Where possible, avoid locating susceptible host plants (hollies) the turf. Where possible, avoid locating susceptible host plants (hollies) near centipedegrass, a favored host for nymphal development. near centipedegrass, a favored host for nymphal development.

Wax scale on holly

Wax Scales (Japanese, Florida, orWax Scales (Japanese, Florida, orIndian wax scale) Indian wax scale) Ceroplastes Ceroplastes spp.spp.

Adult females are about 1/4 inch long and reddish. They are covered Adult females are about 1/4 inch long and reddish. They are covered with a gummy, white wax that look like a dunce cap. Immatures with a gummy, white wax that look like a dunce cap. Immatures resemble cameos with the developing areas of white was not yet resemble cameos with the developing areas of white was not yet completely covering the reddish body. There is one generation a year. completely covering the reddish body. There is one generation a year. Adult females overwinter on bark. Adult females overwinter on bark.

Wax scales feed on many shrubs and trees, but Japanese holly, Chinese Wax scales feed on many shrubs and trees, but Japanese holly, Chinese holly, euonymus, boxwood, firethorn, spirea, barberry, and flowering holly, euonymus, boxwood, firethorn, spirea, barberry, and flowering quince are preferred. quince are preferred.

Large numbers of foraging bees, wasps, hornets, and ants on dense Large numbers of foraging bees, wasps, hornets, and ants on dense shrubs may indicate wax scale. Look for honeydew and sooty mold. shrubs may indicate wax scale. Look for honeydew and sooty mold. Look on twigs and small branches for all wax scale stages. Crawlers Look on twigs and small branches for all wax scale stages. Crawlers begin hatching in early summer in Georgia. begin hatching in early summer in Georgia.

Beginning in May, examine female wax scales on leaves and branches Beginning in May, examine female wax scales on leaves and branches every one to two weeks and determine when eggs begin to hatch. every one to two weeks and determine when eggs begin to hatch. Remove heavily infested twigs or branches. Infested twigs and Remove heavily infested twigs or branches. Infested twigs and branches must be sprayed thoroughly with horticultural oil, insecticidal branches must be sprayed thoroughly with horticultural oil, insecticidal soap, or a contact or systemic insecticide after egg hatch and when soap, or a contact or systemic insecticide after egg hatch and when crawlers are present on the plant to achieve effective control.  crawlers are present on the plant to achieve effective control.  

EUONYMUS SCALE (EUONYMUS SCALE (Unaspis Unaspis euonymieuonymi))

Covers of adult females are about 1/8 inch long, brownish Covers of adult females are about 1/8 inch long, brownish black, and are oyster shell shaped. Male covers are smaller, black, and are oyster shell shaped. Male covers are smaller, thinner, and white. Crawlers are yellowish orange and are thinner, and white. Crawlers are yellowish orange and are most often found on new growth. Fertilized adult females most often found on new growth. Fertilized adult females overwinter. There are four overlapping generations a year.overwinter. There are four overlapping generations a year.

Light infestations on bark cause no obvious damage. In heavy Light infestations on bark cause no obvious damage. In heavy infestations, the white covers of males are easy to spot on the infestations, the white covers of males are easy to spot on the leaves and the leaves develop yellow spots.leaves and the leaves develop yellow spots.

Always examine Euonymus japonica to discover infestations Always examine Euonymus japonica to discover infestations before they cause damage. Carefully examine bark on a few before they cause damage. Carefully examine bark on a few stems to detect light infestations. Examine plants for presence stems to detect light infestations. Examine plants for presence of predators and parasites. of predators and parasites.

Time application of horticultural oil, insecticidal soaps, or Time application of horticultural oil, insecticidal soaps, or other contact insecticides for the presence of crawlersother contact insecticides for the presence of crawlers

Euonymus scale

Key Pests of JuniperKey Pests of Juniper

Spruce spider mitesSpruce spider mites BagwormsBagworms Juniper ScaleJuniper Scale

Spruce Spider Mite Spruce Spider Mite (Oligonychus (Oligonychus ununguis)ununguis)

Adults are about ½ mm long. They have eight legs and are yellowish-green when Adults are about ½ mm long. They have eight legs and are yellowish-green when young. When mature and fully fed, they are grayish-black with a tan area behind young. When mature and fully fed, they are grayish-black with a tan area behind the mouthparts. Immature forms are smaller and lighter in color. Eggs are oval to the mouthparts. Immature forms are smaller and lighter in color. Eggs are oval to circular and reddish brown. There are several generations a year. Eggs overwinter circular and reddish brown. There are several generations a year. Eggs overwinter on bark and needles. on bark and needles.

This cosmopolitan pest prefers spruce, pine, hemlock, and arborvitae. Cedar, yew, This cosmopolitan pest prefers spruce, pine, hemlock, and arborvitae. Cedar, yew, larch, cryptomeria, dawn redwood, fir, Douglas fir, and false cypress also may be larch, cryptomeria, dawn redwood, fir, Douglas fir, and false cypress also may be attacked. attacked.

At the first sign of stippling on needles, tap branches over white paper and count At the first sign of stippling on needles, tap branches over white paper and count the dark, slow-moving spider mites. Note the presence of white, fast-moving the dark, slow-moving spider mites. Note the presence of white, fast-moving phytoseiid predatory mites and the minute, black lady beetle mite predators. phytoseiid predatory mites and the minute, black lady beetle mite predators. Concentrate monitoring activities from March through June and September through Concentrate monitoring activities from March through June and September through November. November.

Spraying is not recommended unless stippling damage exceeds ten percent of green Spraying is not recommended unless stippling damage exceeds ten percent of green foliage; more than ten spider mites, on the average, are tapped from a tree's foliage; more than ten spider mites, on the average, are tapped from a tree's branches; and beneficial mites and beetles are not found in all branch samples. Use branches; and beneficial mites and beetles are not found in all branch samples. Use dormant oil sprays when overwintering eggs are abundant. In the growing season, dormant oil sprays when overwintering eggs are abundant. In the growing season, use summer oil or insecticidal soap sprays if predator populations are present. use summer oil or insecticidal soap sprays if predator populations are present.

Sampling for mites; pest and predator mites

Juniper Scale Juniper Scale (Carulaspis juniperi(Carulaspis juniperi))

Mature female covers are circular, white, and about 1/16 inch Mature female covers are circular, white, and about 1/16 inch in diameter. Male covers are smaller, elongate, oval, and in diameter. Male covers are smaller, elongate, oval, and white. Shed skins incorporated into the cover are yellow. white. Shed skins incorporated into the cover are yellow. There is one generation a year. Adult females overwinter on There is one generation a year. Adult females overwinter on needles. needles.

This imported armored scale insect prefers juniper, but has This imported armored scale insect prefers juniper, but has also been collected from Leyland cypress and cedar. Yellow also been collected from Leyland cypress and cedar. Yellow crawlers are present in late spring. crawlers are present in late spring.

Dormant oil spray will reduce the number of adults that Dormant oil spray will reduce the number of adults that successfully overwinter, but usually does not provide adequate successfully overwinter, but usually does not provide adequate control. Use horticultural oil or insecticidal soap to control control. Use horticultural oil or insecticidal soap to control crawlers in late spring. Systemic insecticides may be used to crawlers in late spring. Systemic insecticides may be used to reduce heavy populations of scales in late summer and fall. reduce heavy populations of scales in late summer and fall.

Key Pests of LantanaKey Pests of Lantana

WhiteflyWhitefly Lantana lace bugLantana lace bug

Whitefly and lantana lace bugWhitefly and lantana lace bug

11 lantana cultivars 11 lantana cultivars evaluated for resistance to evaluated for resistance to greenhouse and silverleaf greenhouse and silverleaf whitefly and lantana lace whitefly and lantana lace bugbug

Larger-leaved cultivars very Larger-leaved cultivars very susceptible and may serve susceptible and may serve as indicator plantsas indicator plants

Key Pests of MapleKey Pests of Maple

Cottony Maple ScaleCottony Maple Scale Green Striped MaplewormGreen Striped Mapleworm Tip BorersTip Borers LeafhoppersLeafhoppers Flatheaded apple tree borerFlatheaded apple tree borer Japanese beetleJapanese beetle Asian ambrosia beetleAsian ambrosia beetle AphidsAphids

Cottony Maple Scale (Cottony Maple Scale (Pulvinaria Pulvinaria innumerabilisinnumerabilis))

Adult females are about 3/16 inch long. They are black, flat, Adult females are about 3/16 inch long. They are black, flat, and oval. The 1/4-inch white cottony ovisac, or egg sac, is and oval. The 1/4-inch white cottony ovisac, or egg sac, is deposited on bark. Crawlers appear in June and immatures in deposited on bark. Crawlers appear in June and immatures in summer on the underside of leaves. There is one generation a summer on the underside of leaves. There is one generation a year. Immatures overwinter on twigs. Preferred hosts include year. Immatures overwinter on twigs. Preferred hosts include maple, elm, hawthorn, dogwood, sycamore, poplar, and linden. maple, elm, hawthorn, dogwood, sycamore, poplar, and linden.

Look for white ovisacs on bark in early spring. During the Look for white ovisacs on bark in early spring. During the summer, look on underside of leaves for flat, yellow summer, look on underside of leaves for flat, yellow immatures sucking sap from leaf veins where honeydew and immatures sucking sap from leaf veins where honeydew and sooty mold are found on the host plant. sooty mold are found on the host plant.

Apply dormant oils to bark to kill overwintering nymphs. Apply dormant oils to bark to kill overwintering nymphs. Horticultural oil or insecticidal soap can be applied to leaves Horticultural oil or insecticidal soap can be applied to leaves during the summer to control crawlersduring the summer to control crawlers

Cottony Maple Scale (Cottony Maple Scale (Pulvinaria Pulvinaria innumerabilisinnumerabilis))

AphidsAphids

Wooly aphids on Maple

Aphids often attack new growth on plantsearly in the year

Flatheaded Appletree Borer Flatheaded Appletree Borer (Crysobothris femorata(Crysobothris femorata))

Adults may reach ½ inch in length. They are oval, flattened beetles, metallic Adults may reach ½ inch in length. They are oval, flattened beetles, metallic greenish bronze above and brassy below. The wing covers have wavy, light-colored greenish bronze above and brassy below. The wing covers have wavy, light-colored indentations. The white larvae, commonly called flatheaded borers, are expanded indentations. The white larvae, commonly called flatheaded borers, are expanded just behind the true head, which is black. There is one generation a year. Larvae just behind the true head, which is black. There is one generation a year. Larvae overwinter in galleries inside the host plant. overwinter in galleries inside the host plant.

Preferred hosts include sycamore, red maple, silver maple, willow, oak, tuliptree Preferred hosts include sycamore, red maple, silver maple, willow, oak, tuliptree poplar, elm, beech, hickory, apple, pear, dogwood, and black walnut. poplar, elm, beech, hickory, apple, pear, dogwood, and black walnut.

Larvae bore fairly large, irregular cavities in phloem tissue of the main trunk and Larvae bore fairly large, irregular cavities in phloem tissue of the main trunk and larger branches. Young trees and trees under stress are particularly attractive to this larger branches. Young trees and trees under stress are particularly attractive to this pest. Larvae are usually found boring into the base of trees. Small trees often are pest. Larvae are usually found boring into the base of trees. Small trees often are killed. killed.

Adults run over bark and are quick to fly. They are most active on exposed, sunny Adults run over bark and are quick to fly. They are most active on exposed, sunny bark of weakened trees from early March through May and early September bark of weakened trees from early March through May and early September through October. through October.

Maintain vigor through use of good cultural practices. If numerous adult beetles are Maintain vigor through use of good cultural practices. If numerous adult beetles are noted on bark, spray the trunk and major branches with an approved residual noted on bark, spray the trunk and major branches with an approved residual insecticideinsecticide

Maple Bladdergall Mite and MapleMaple Bladdergall Mite and MapleSpindlegall Mite Spindlegall Mite (Vasates quadripedes(Vasates quadripedes

and and V. aceriscrumena)V. aceriscrumena) Adults of these two eriophyid mites are not visible Adults of these two eriophyid mites are not visible

without a hand lens. They live in circular and spindle-without a hand lens. They live in circular and spindle-shaped galls. They are white to clear in color, 0.15 shaped galls. They are white to clear in color, 0.15 mm long, cigar-shaped with only four anterior legs. mm long, cigar-shaped with only four anterior legs. There are several generations a year. Adult forms There are several generations a year. Adult forms overwinter in bark cracks. overwinter in bark cracks.

While control measures usually are not necessary in While control measures usually are not necessary in the landscape, pyrethroid application when leaves the landscape, pyrethroid application when leaves first flush may prevent new galls in the nursery. first flush may prevent new galls in the nursery. Where feasible, affected leaves can be removed on Where feasible, affected leaves can be removed on plants not scheduled for sale.plants not scheduled for sale.

Maple bladder gallMaple bladder gall

Key Pests of OaksKey Pests of Oaks

Orange striped oakwormOrange striped oakworm Lecanium scaleLecanium scale Insect gallsInsect galls

Obscure scale on OakObscure scale on Oak

This scale has been attacked by fungus

Parasite emergence holes are visible on these scale covers

Obscure Scale Obscure Scale (Melanaspis obscura)(Melanaspis obscura)

Fully enlarged adult female covers may reach 1/8 inch in diameter. They Fully enlarged adult female covers may reach 1/8 inch in diameter. They are circular, brown to gray, slightly convex, with central shed skins that are are circular, brown to gray, slightly convex, with central shed skins that are black when rubbed. Male covers are smaller and broadly oval. This species black when rubbed. Male covers are smaller and broadly oval. This species develops in overlapping aggregations. There is one generation a year. develops in overlapping aggregations. There is one generation a year. Immatures overwinter and crawlers appear in July. Immatures overwinter and crawlers appear in July.

Look on three to four-year-old branches for overlapping gray scale covers. Look on three to four-year-old branches for overlapping gray scale covers. Scrape off covers to determine viability of a population because covers of Scrape off covers to determine viability of a population because covers of dead scales may remain attached. In midsummer, live adult female scales dead scales may remain attached. In midsummer, live adult female scales are light purple. Scout in mid-July to determine amount of crawler activity. are light purple. Scout in mid-July to determine amount of crawler activity. Look under covers in the dormant season for the small, yellow immatures Look under covers in the dormant season for the small, yellow immatures to see if dormant sprays are needed. Look for holes in covers to estimate to see if dormant sprays are needed. Look for holes in covers to estimate level of parasitism. level of parasitism.

Concentrate dormant oil sprays on three- to four-year-old growth to reduce Concentrate dormant oil sprays on three- to four-year-old growth to reduce overwintering populations. Spray summer oil in late July to kill newly overwintering populations. Spray summer oil in late July to kill newly settled crawlers. Several parasite species are active when the scale crawlers settled crawlers. Several parasite species are active when the scale crawlers appear in July. Avoid synthetic insecticide sprays at this time.appear in July. Avoid synthetic insecticide sprays at this time.

Orange Striped OakwormOrange Striped Oakworm

Orangestriped Oakworm Orangestriped Oakworm (Anisota (Anisota senatoria)senatoria)

Adult moths are about 1-1/4 inches long with wings closed. They are reddish Adult moths are about 1-1/4 inches long with wings closed. They are reddish brown, translucent, with a submarginal dark stripe and a white spot on each brown, translucent, with a submarginal dark stripe and a white spot on each forewing. Mature larvae are about 1-1/2 inch long. They are black with eight forewing. Mature larvae are about 1-1/2 inch long. They are black with eight orange-to-yellow stripes and two black spines behind the head. Adults first appear orange-to-yellow stripes and two black spines behind the head. Adults first appear in early summer. Pupae overwinter in soil. in early summer. Pupae overwinter in soil.

This native notodontid moth caterpillar prefers to feed on oaks, but it also attacks This native notodontid moth caterpillar prefers to feed on oaks, but it also attacks hickory and birch. hickory and birch.

The caterpillars are gregarious and early instars feed by skeletonizing the leaf The caterpillars are gregarious and early instars feed by skeletonizing the leaf surface. Older caterpillars are defoliators and may consume all but the leaf midrib. surface. Older caterpillars are defoliators and may consume all but the leaf midrib. Defoliation usually occurs one branch at a time when populations are small. Defoliation usually occurs one branch at a time when populations are small.

Look for signs of localized skeletonization turning to defoliation on host tree Look for signs of localized skeletonization turning to defoliation on host tree branches. Where this species is a serious problem, a black-light trap can be used to branches. Where this species is a serious problem, a black-light trap can be used to determine the first adult appearance and the relative size of each generation. determine the first adult appearance and the relative size of each generation.

Manually destroy aggregations of young larvae when they are detected on small Manually destroy aggregations of young larvae when they are detected on small trees. Application of Bacillus thuringiensis or horticultural oil will control young trees. Application of Bacillus thuringiensis or horticultural oil will control young larvae. Contact insecticides often are required to control large caterpillars.larvae. Contact insecticides often are required to control large caterpillars.

Oak Lecanium Oak Lecanium (Parthenolecanium (Parthenolecanium quercifex)quercifex)

Fully developed adult females are about 1/4 Fully developed adult females are about 1/4 inch long. They are oval to almost circular, inch long. They are oval to almost circular, highly convex and light to dark brown. highly convex and light to dark brown. Crawlers are pale yellow. There is one Crawlers are pale yellow. There is one generation a year. Immatures overwinter on generation a year. Immatures overwinter on twigs. twigs.

Key Pests of Key Pests of OenotheraOenothera

AlticaAltica flea beetles flea beetles

Other insect pestsOther insect pests

Oleander aphid on Oleander aphid on AsclepiasAsclepias Eastern tent caterpillarEastern tent caterpillar Fall webwormFall webworm

Oleander aphidOleander aphid

24 24 Asclepias Asclepias taxa taxa evaluatedevaluated

Gradients in Gradients in susceptibility suggest susceptibility suggest options in high density options in high density aphid areasaphid areas

Oleander aphidOleander aphid

A. tuberosa A. tuberosa and and A. A. physocarpaphysocarpa maintained maintained better appearancebetter appearance

Numerous natural Numerous natural enemies colonize enemies colonize milkweed plants with milkweed plants with aphidsaphids

Eastern Tent Caterpillar Eastern Tent Caterpillar (Malacosoma (Malacosoma americanamerican))

Adult moths are about 1 inch long. They are light brown with two Adult moths are about 1 inch long. They are light brown with two white diagonal stripes across each forewing. Mature larvae may white diagonal stripes across each forewing. Mature larvae may reach a length of 2 inches or more. This is the only common reach a length of 2 inches or more. This is the only common caterpillar with a white stripe down the back. There is one caterpillar with a white stripe down the back. There is one generation a year. Pupae overwinter in cocoons in debris on the generation a year. Pupae overwinter in cocoons in debris on the ground. ground.

Silken webs in tree forks at budbreak are indicative of this pest. In Silken webs in tree forks at budbreak are indicative of this pest. In peak population years, preferred hosts can be defoliated. peak population years, preferred hosts can be defoliated.

Look for the black 3/4 inch-long egg masses on preferred hosts in Look for the black 3/4 inch-long egg masses on preferred hosts in the dormant season. Look for silken webs in the branch forks of the dormant season. Look for silken webs in the branch forks of preferred hosts in early March. preferred hosts in early March.

Prune out the egg masses during the dormant season. Mechanically Prune out the egg masses during the dormant season. Mechanically destroy the web contents when first discovered. Time insecticide destroy the web contents when first discovered. Time insecticide application for the presence of young larvae.application for the presence of young larvae.

Fall Webworm Fall Webworm (Hyphantria cunea)(Hyphantria cunea)

Adult moths are about 3/4 inch long with wings folded. Wings are all Adult moths are about 3/4 inch long with wings folded. Wings are all white or white with black spots. Bases of front legs are orange-yellow. white or white with black spots. Bases of front legs are orange-yellow. Mature larvae are about 1 inch long and may occur in two color forms: Mature larvae are about 1 inch long and may occur in two color forms: those with black heads are yellowish white and those with red heads are those with black heads are yellowish white and those with red heads are brown. Both forms have paired black tubercles running down the back. brown. Both forms have paired black tubercles running down the back. They are covered with long, silky gray hairs. There are four generations a They are covered with long, silky gray hairs. There are four generations a year. Pupae overwinter in flimsy cocoons in protected places. year. Pupae overwinter in flimsy cocoons in protected places.

Preferred hosts include mulberry, walnut, hickory, elm, sweet gum, poplar, Preferred hosts include mulberry, walnut, hickory, elm, sweet gum, poplar, willow, oak, linden, ash, and apple and other fruit trees. willow, oak, linden, ash, and apple and other fruit trees.

The caterpillars produce a "web" of fine silk over terminals. They feed The caterpillars produce a "web" of fine silk over terminals. They feed inside the silken web, which they enlarge to take in more foliage as they inside the silken web, which they enlarge to take in more foliage as they grow. grow.

In early spring, examine the south side of tree crowns for the first signs of In early spring, examine the south side of tree crowns for the first signs of webbing over terminals. Insecticides must penetrate the" nests" to provide webbing over terminals. Insecticides must penetrate the" nests" to provide good controlgood control

Key Beneficial InsectsKey Beneficial Insects

Lady beetlesLady beetles Ground beetlesGround beetles Tiger beetlesTiger beetles Rove beetlesRove beetles Syrphid fliesSyrphid flies Long-legged fliesLong-legged flies Robber fliesRobber flies Spined soldier bugsSpined soldier bugs Predaceous damsel bugsPredaceous damsel bugs

Minute pirate bugsMinute pirate bugs Predaceous plant bugsPredaceous plant bugs Assassin bugsAssassin bugs Big-eyed bugsBig-eyed bugs Green lacewingsGreen lacewings Brown lacewingsBrown lacewings Parasitic waspsParasitic wasps Parasitic fliesParasitic flies

Predatory beetlesPredatory beetles

Ground Beetles (Carabidae) Ground Beetles (Carabidae) are predaceous as adults and as larvae. are predaceous as adults and as larvae. There are some seed feeding species. They are active on the ground There are some seed feeding species. They are active on the ground primarily at night. Adult beetles vary in size from 1/4 to 1 inch or longer. primarily at night. Adult beetles vary in size from 1/4 to 1 inch or longer. Many species are metallic, while others are plain brown or black. Many species are metallic, while others are plain brown or black.

Lady Beetles (Coccinellidae)Lady Beetles (Coccinellidae) are among our most important beneficials. are among our most important beneficials. Adults and larvae feed on aphids, scale insects, mites, mealybugs, other Adults and larvae feed on aphids, scale insects, mites, mealybugs, other soft-bodied insects and their eggs. Lady beetle adults are oval-shaped. soft-bodied insects and their eggs. Lady beetle adults are oval-shaped. Most are orange or reddish with black markings. Most are orange or reddish with black markings.

Lady beetle larvae are elongate, covered with spines, and dorso-ventrally Lady beetle larvae are elongate, covered with spines, and dorso-ventrally flattened. Often they are brightly colored with spots. Some larvae are flattened. Often they are brightly colored with spots. Some larvae are covered with white waxy secretion like mealybugs. Adults and larvae are covered with white waxy secretion like mealybugs. Adults and larvae are voracious feeders on aphids, a single individual consuming hundreds of voracious feeders on aphids, a single individual consuming hundreds of aphids during its lifetime.aphids during its lifetime.

Rove beetles (Staphylinidae) Rove beetles (Staphylinidae) have shortened elytra (wing covers) that have shortened elytra (wing covers) that

leave the segments of the abdomen visible giving these beetles their leave the segments of the abdomen visible giving these beetles their characteristic appearance. Most species are slender and elongate from characteristic appearance. Most species are slender and elongate from 1/16-1/2 inch long. Typically they are reddish-brown to black. Many 1/16-1/2 inch long. Typically they are reddish-brown to black. Many species are predaceous, some feed on decaying organic matter helping to species are predaceous, some feed on decaying organic matter helping to recycle needed nutrients in the landscape. recycle needed nutrients in the landscape.

Tiger Beetles (Cicindellidae)Tiger Beetles (Cicindellidae) are very active, often metallic beetles 1/2- are very active, often metallic beetles 1/2-

3/4 inch long. They are difficult to collect because of the speed with which 3/4 inch long. They are difficult to collect because of the speed with which they run or fly. Larvae live in burrows in the soil and ambush prey as it they run or fly. Larvae live in burrows in the soil and ambush prey as it goes by. goes by.

EarwigsEarwigs

Earwigs (Dermaptera)Earwigs (Dermaptera)

Many species are predaceous. Earwigs vary in Many species are predaceous. Earwigs vary in size, some of the larger species are 3/4-1 inch size, some of the larger species are 3/4-1 inch long. They are usually brown and may have long. They are usually brown and may have stripes. stripes.

Predators in the “True Bug” groupPredators in the “True Bug” group

True Bugs (Hemiptera)True Bugs (Hemiptera) is a group that contains several generalist predator species. is a group that contains several generalist predator species. These insects all have piercing-sucking mouthparts which they use to impale their prey These insects all have piercing-sucking mouthparts which they use to impale their prey and extract fluid. The beak is usually carried beneath the body, but can be pointed and extract fluid. The beak is usually carried beneath the body, but can be pointed forward or downward while feeding. The usual prey for these insects are other soft-forward or downward while feeding. The usual prey for these insects are other soft-bodied insects of small to intermediate size. Representatives of these predators include :bodied insects of small to intermediate size. Representatives of these predators include :

Assassin Bugs (Reduviidae) Assassin Bugs (Reduviidae) generally appear oval or elongate and are often black and generally appear oval or elongate and are often black and orange-red or brown. They are larger than most of the other predaceous bugs, especially orange-red or brown. They are larger than most of the other predaceous bugs, especially the giant wheel bug. Assassin bugs have a head that has a particularly long and narrow the giant wheel bug. Assassin bugs have a head that has a particularly long and narrow appearance. They feed on most other insects and will inflict a painful bite if handleappearance. They feed on most other insects and will inflict a painful bite if handle

Big-Eyed Bugs (Lygaeidae) Big-Eyed Bugs (Lygaeidae) are stout bodied insects, about 1/8 inch long with prominent are stout bodied insects, about 1/8 inch long with prominent eyes that give the insect its name. These insects are slightly larger than chinch bugs. eyes that give the insect its name. These insects are slightly larger than chinch bugs. They may have similar coloration, but are always broader across the head than the area They may have similar coloration, but are always broader across the head than the area just behind (shoulders). Chinch bugs, on the other hand, have a narrow head, never just behind (shoulders). Chinch bugs, on the other hand, have a narrow head, never broader than the area directly behind. Often big-eyed bugs can be found with broader than the area directly behind. Often big-eyed bugs can be found with populations of chinch bugs and it is important to be able to distinguish predator from populations of chinch bugs and it is important to be able to distinguish predator from pest. Big-eyed bugs also feed on caterpillars and insect eggs. pest. Big-eyed bugs also feed on caterpillars and insect eggs.

Minute Pirate Bugs (Anthocoridae)Minute Pirate Bugs (Anthocoridae) are 1/8 - 1/4 inch long. These insects are black are 1/8 - 1/4 inch long. These insects are black and white as adults and have colorful yellow-orange-brown nymphs depending upon and white as adults and have colorful yellow-orange-brown nymphs depending upon instar. Gardeners notice the painful bite that this small insect produces. It is an effective instar. Gardeners notice the painful bite that this small insect produces. It is an effective predator of thrips and the eggs of many insect and mite species. predator of thrips and the eggs of many insect and mite species.

Predaceous Damsel Bugs (Nabidae) Predaceous Damsel Bugs (Nabidae) are 1/8 - 3/8 inch long and may be cream colored are 1/8 - 3/8 inch long and may be cream colored to dark brown to black depending on the species. The most common species are slender, to dark brown to black depending on the species. The most common species are slender, elongate insects that are most active in mid summer. They feed on eggs and immature elongate insects that are most active in mid summer. They feed on eggs and immature stages of many pest insects.stages of many pest insects.

Predaceous Plant Bugs (Miridae)Predaceous Plant Bugs (Miridae) are less well known than other predaceous true bugs, are less well known than other predaceous true bugs, but have been shown to be active predators of thrips, lace bugs, aphids, moth eggs and but have been shown to be active predators of thrips, lace bugs, aphids, moth eggs and other insects of importance in the landscape.other insects of importance in the landscape.

Predatory fliesPredatory flies

Long-Legged Flies (Dolichopodidae)Long-Legged Flies (Dolichopodidae) are small, about 1/4 inch with very are small, about 1/4 inch with very long legs in relation to the body and usually metallic blue or green in color. long legs in relation to the body and usually metallic blue or green in color. Adults and larvae are predaceous and are often found near woodland Adults and larvae are predaceous and are often found near woodland streams or other wet areas. streams or other wet areas. Predaceous Midges (Cecidomyiidae) Predaceous Midges (Cecidomyiidae) Most Most members of this group are gall makers on plants but there are some members of this group are gall makers on plants but there are some predaceous members of the family that feed on aphids. These larvae look predaceous members of the family that feed on aphids. These larvae look much like syrphid larvae, but smaller. much like syrphid larvae, but smaller.

Robber Flies (Asilidae)Robber Flies (Asilidae) are 3/4 - 1 1/4 inch long and vary in appearance. are 3/4 - 1 1/4 inch long and vary in appearance.

Some are quite stout while others are long and slender. The face is usually Some are quite stout while others are long and slender. The face is usually bearded and the head is hollowed out between the eyes. Adults are bearded and the head is hollowed out between the eyes. Adults are predaceous on many kinds of insects and usually capture their prey in the predaceous on many kinds of insects and usually capture their prey in the air. Larvae are soil-dwelling and predaceous on such things as white grubs. air. Larvae are soil-dwelling and predaceous on such things as white grubs.

Syrphid Flies (Syrphidae)Syrphid Flies (Syrphidae) are sometimes called flower flies because they are sometimes called flower flies because they

are commonly found on flowers or hover flies for their behavior in flight. are commonly found on flowers or hover flies for their behavior in flight. Most of these flies are yellow with brown or black bands on the abdomen. Most of these flies are yellow with brown or black bands on the abdomen. Some resemble wasps, many mimic bees. Some resemble wasps, many mimic bees.

   Syrphid larvae are maggot-like and predaceous on aphids and other soft-Syrphid larvae are maggot-like and predaceous on aphids and other soft-

bodied insects. They have no legs or visible head capsule and are bodied insects. They have no legs or visible head capsule and are translucent. translucent.

Spiders and mitesSpiders and mites

Mites Mites are more closely related to spiders than they are to are more closely related to spiders than they are to insects. Mites do not have antennae like insects do, or insects. Mites do not have antennae like insects do, or segmented bodies or wings. They are usually very small and segmented bodies or wings. They are usually very small and often go unnoticed. Most mites have an egg stage, a six-legged often go unnoticed. Most mites have an egg stage, a six-legged larval stage, and two eight-legged stages before becoming an larval stage, and two eight-legged stages before becoming an adult. Phytoseiid mites are the major group of natural enemies adult. Phytoseiid mites are the major group of natural enemies that attack certain kinds of pest spider mites. It is especially that attack certain kinds of pest spider mites. It is especially important to conserve predatory mites in the landscape to important to conserve predatory mites in the landscape to prevent pest mite outbreaks. Other insect pests are also eaten prevent pest mite outbreaks. Other insect pests are also eaten by predatory mites including whiteflies, thrips, and certain by predatory mites including whiteflies, thrips, and certain insect eggs.insect eggs.

Most Most predaceous mitespredaceous mites are somewhat pear-shaped and shiny, are somewhat pear-shaped and shiny, with noticeably long legs. They may be bright red, yellow, or with noticeably long legs. They may be bright red, yellow, or green depending on what they've been eating and appear "see-green depending on what they've been eating and appear "see-through". Predaceous mite eggs are usually oblong instead of through". Predaceous mite eggs are usually oblong instead of spherical like the eggs of pest mite species. Predaceous mites spherical like the eggs of pest mite species. Predaceous mites are also much more active and mobile than pest mite species. are also much more active and mobile than pest mite species.

Spiders Spiders are all predators, but have many different are all predators, but have many different lifestyles. Some make webs and wait for prey to come lifestyles. Some make webs and wait for prey to come to them while others are active hunters. Spiders are to them while others are active hunters. Spiders are important predators in the landscape and are very important predators in the landscape and are very common in trees, shrubs, grass, and herbaceous plant common in trees, shrubs, grass, and herbaceous plant beds. Most spiders are general predators, feeding on a beds. Most spiders are general predators, feeding on a wide variety of prey. Their are a number of spider wide variety of prey. Their are a number of spider species that may be found in the landscape. All have species that may be found in the landscape. All have two body parts, an abdomen and a cephalothorax two body parts, an abdomen and a cephalothorax (combined head and thorax), and eight legs. Spiders (combined head and thorax), and eight legs. Spiders tend to avoid people and most are harmless to tend to avoid people and most are harmless to humans. Spider complexes are believed to be humans. Spider complexes are believed to be important in reducing several kinds of nursery pests. important in reducing several kinds of nursery pests.

ThripsThrips

Thrips (Order Thysanoptera) Thrips (Order Thysanoptera) are very small, are very small, narrow insects with fringes on the edges of their narrow insects with fringes on the edges of their wings. Many species are recognized for their plant wings. Many species are recognized for their plant feeding (pest) habits, but there are many predaceous feeding (pest) habits, but there are many predaceous members of this insect order. These important members of this insect order. These important predators of mites and small, soft-bodied insects are predators of mites and small, soft-bodied insects are commonly black, yellow or brown as adults and clear commonly black, yellow or brown as adults and clear or translucent white-yellow as immatures, although or translucent white-yellow as immatures, although some are a distinctive reddish-orange in color. some are a distinctive reddish-orange in color.

LacewingsLacewings

Lacewings (Chrysopidae, Lacewings (Chrysopidae, Hemerobiidae)Hemerobiidae)

Both green lacewings and brown lacewings are Both green lacewings and brown lacewings are predators, green lacewings are more common. They predators, green lacewings are more common. They are often found on weeds, shrubs, and other cultivated are often found on weeds, shrubs, and other cultivated plants. Adult green lacewings are about 3/4 inch, plants. Adult green lacewings are about 3/4 inch, brown lacewings are smaller. Adult and larval brown brown lacewings are smaller. Adult and larval brown lacewings and larval green lacewings feed on soft-lacewings and larval green lacewings feed on soft-bodied insects, especially aphids, and mites. Adult bodied insects, especially aphids, and mites. Adult green lacewings may be pollen-feeders or they may green lacewings may be pollen-feeders or they may be predaceous. Most are greenish in color with be predaceous. Most are greenish in color with copper eyes and the network of veins in the wings copper eyes and the network of veins in the wings that gives them their name. that gives them their name.

Praying mantidsPraying mantids

Praying Mantids (MantidaePraying Mantids (Mantidae) are comparatively ) are comparatively large insects. Some may be as long as 3 in. Our native large insects. Some may be as long as 3 in. Our native species are much smaller, however. Usually they are species are much smaller, however. Usually they are green, gray, or brown. Their raptorial front legs are green, gray, or brown. Their raptorial front legs are covered with stout spines that help them grasp their covered with stout spines that help them grasp their prey. prey.

Mantid egg capsules contain 200 or more eggs neatly Mantid egg capsules contain 200 or more eggs neatly arranged in rows. They are deposited on twigs and arranged in rows. They are deposited on twigs and stems and then the frothy mass hardens. It is very stems and then the frothy mass hardens. It is very unlikely that praying mantids can suppress key pests unlikely that praying mantids can suppress key pests in the landscape to the extent necessaryin the landscape to the extent necessary

Parasitic wasps and fliesParasitic wasps and flies

Parasites Parasites are defined as organisms that live in or on the body of their host during are defined as organisms that live in or on the body of their host during some part of the parasite's life cycle. Parasitoids are a type of parasite that may some part of the parasite's life cycle. Parasitoids are a type of parasite that may consume part or all of its host's tissues resulting in the death of the host. The most consume part or all of its host's tissues resulting in the death of the host. The most abundant parasitic insects are flies or wasps. Parasitic insects usually require only abundant parasitic insects are flies or wasps. Parasitic insects usually require only one host to complete their development, in contrast to predators which require one host to complete their development, in contrast to predators which require several. Parasitic insects may be responsible for controlling several pests, however, several. Parasitic insects may be responsible for controlling several pests, however, when they oviposit, or lay eggs, on a number of hosts. when they oviposit, or lay eggs, on a number of hosts.

Parasitic WaspsParasitic Wasps are a large group of beneficial insects and are extremely are a large group of beneficial insects and are extremely important in biological control. Many wasp families contain representatives of the important in biological control. Many wasp families contain representatives of the parasitic life style. Most of these wasps are very small <1/8 inch and are , therefore, parasitic life style. Most of these wasps are very small <1/8 inch and are , therefore, rarely seen. A large number in fact attack the egg stage, completing their entire life rarely seen. A large number in fact attack the egg stage, completing their entire life cycle inside minute insect eggs. cycle inside minute insect eggs.

Parasitic wasps lay their eggs in or on the host and the immature stage of the wasp Parasitic wasps lay their eggs in or on the host and the immature stage of the wasp feeds on the hosts tissues. The parasitic wasp may emerge from its host to pupate, feeds on the hosts tissues. The parasitic wasp may emerge from its host to pupate, or it may pupate within the body of its host. Wasp larvae that develop inside the or it may pupate within the body of its host. Wasp larvae that develop inside the host are called endoparasitic. They leave evidence of parasitism when they chew a host are called endoparasitic. They leave evidence of parasitism when they chew a small hole in their host's body to emerge. That small circular hole indicates that small hole in their host's body to emerge. That small circular hole indicates that parasitism is occurring in the pest population. Insects that you may find parasitized parasitism is occurring in the pest population. Insects that you may find parasitized this way include scales, aphids, whiteflies, lace bug eggs, leafminers and this way include scales, aphids, whiteflies, lace bug eggs, leafminers and caterpillars. Other parasitic larvae live on the outside of the host's body and are caterpillars. Other parasitic larvae live on the outside of the host's body and are called ectoparasites. Both endo and ectoparasites may spin numerous white called ectoparasites. Both endo and ectoparasites may spin numerous white cocoons for pupation, another obvious indication of parasitism.cocoons for pupation, another obvious indication of parasitism.

Parasitic Flies Parasitic Flies are abundantly represented by the family Tachinidae, with about are abundantly represented by the family Tachinidae, with about 1,300 North American species. They vary tremendously in appearance. Many just 1,300 North American species. They vary tremendously in appearance. Many just resemble a common husefly, while others look like bees or wasps. These flies resemble a common husefly, while others look like bees or wasps. These flies deposit an egg or in some cases, a live larva, on or near the body of their host. The deposit an egg or in some cases, a live larva, on or near the body of their host. The tachinid larva burrows into its host and consumes the internal tissues. Numerous tachinid larva burrows into its host and consumes the internal tissues. Numerous kinds of insect pests are attacked by tachinids. kinds of insect pests are attacked by tachinids.

Pests to be on the lookout for Pests to be on the lookout for January- DecemberJanuary- December

Insects that are active or that can be scouted Insects that are active or that can be scouted for (SC), pruned out (P), sprayed (S), or for (SC), pruned out (P), sprayed (S), or treated with dormant oil (D) are listed in the treated with dormant oil (D) are listed in the following slides during the months where following slides during the months where these activities would be appropriate.these activities would be appropriate.

See individual plant based calendars in See individual plant based calendars in previous slides for more details.previous slides for more details.

JanuaryJanuary

Southern red mite-SSouthern red mite-S Armored scales – DOArmored scales – DO Bagworms- remove bags where feasibleBagworms- remove bags where feasible Asian ambrosia beetles- may be active this Asian ambrosia beetles- may be active this

early some years in some locationsearly some years in some locations Flea beetles may be active in some locationsFlea beetles may be active in some locations

FebruaryFebruary

Southern red mite-SSouthern red mite-S Cottony maple scale-SCottony maple scale-S Armored scales-SArmored scales-S Bagworms-PBagworms-P Spruce spider mites-SSpruce spider mites-S Azalea lace bug- SC (scout for eggs)Azalea lace bug- SC (scout for eggs) Asian ambrosia beetle-SAsian ambrosia beetle-S Leaf beetles on coreopsis and primrose-SCLeaf beetles on coreopsis and primrose-SC

MarchMarch

Azalea lace bug-SAzalea lace bug-S Strawberry rootwormStrawberry rootworm Azalea stem borer-SAzalea stem borer-S Boxwood Leafminer- scBoxwood Leafminer- sc Boxwood psyllid-SBoxwood psyllid-S Armored scales-SArmored scales-S Asian ambrosia beetle-SAsian ambrosia beetle-S Cottony maple scale-SCottony maple scale-S Citrus whitefly-SCCitrus whitefly-SC

Holly leafminer-SHolly leafminer-S Bagworms- SCBagworms- SC Spruce spider mites-SSpruce spider mites-S Aphids-SAphids-S Flat headed apple tree Flat headed apple tree

borer-Sborer-S Dogwood twig borer-SDogwood twig borer-S Insect galls on oaks and Insect galls on oaks and

maple-Smaple-S

AprilApril Azalea lace bug-SAzalea lace bug-S Azalea leaf miner-SAzalea leaf miner-S Strawberry rootwormStrawberry rootworm Azalea bark scale-SAzalea bark scale-S Azalea stem borer-SAzalea stem borer-S Boxwood leaf miner-SBoxwood leaf miner-S Leaf beetles on coreopsis, Leaf beetles on coreopsis,

primrose and crapemyrtle-Sprimrose and crapemyrtle-S Spruce spider mite-SSpruce spider mite-S Bagworms-SBagworms-S Cottony maple scale-SCottony maple scale-S Borers on maple-SBorers on maple-S

Boxwood psyllid--SBoxwood psyllid--S Tea scale and other armored Tea scale and other armored

scales-Sscales-S Asian ambrosia beetleAsian ambrosia beetle Dogwood borer-SDogwood borer-S Dogwood twig borer-SDogwood twig borer-S Dogwood clubgall midge-PDogwood clubgall midge-P Citrus whitefly-SCitrus whitefly-S Armored scale on gardeniaArmored scale on gardenia Holly leafminer-SHolly leafminer-S Lecanium scale-SLecanium scale-S Aphids-SAphids-S Insect galls on oaks and maple-SInsect galls on oaks and maple-S

MayMay Azalea leaf miner-SAzalea leaf miner-S Azalea bark scale-SAzalea bark scale-S Azalea stem borer-SAzalea stem borer-S Boxwood leafminer-SBoxwood leafminer-S Indian wax scale-SIndian wax scale-S Boxwood psyllid-SBoxwood psyllid-S Scales on boxwood, gardenia, Scales on boxwood, gardenia,

holly, camelia-Sholly, camelia-S Crape myrtle aphid-SCrape myrtle aphid-S Japanese beetle first appearanceJapanese beetle first appearance Flea beetles on crape myrtle and Flea beetles on crape myrtle and

primrose-Sprimrose-S

Dogwood borer-SDogwood borer-S Dogwood clubgall midge- pruneDogwood clubgall midge- prune Dogwood twig borer-SDogwood twig borer-S Citrus whiteflyCitrus whitefly Wax scale on holly and others-SWax scale on holly and others-S Caterpillars-SCaterpillars-S Aphids-SAphids-S Borers-SBorers-S Lecanium scales on oak-SLecanium scales on oak-S Insect galls on oak and maple-S/PInsect galls on oak and maple-S/P

JuneJune Azalea leafminer-SAzalea leafminer-S Azalea stem borer-PAzalea stem borer-P Two spotted spider mite-STwo spotted spider mite-S Indian wax scale-SIndian wax scale-S Armored scales-SArmored scales-S Crape myrtle aphid-SCrape myrtle aphid-S Japanese beetle-SJapanese beetle-S Dogwood borer-SDogwood borer-S Dogwood clubgall midge-PDogwood clubgall midge-P Cottony maple scale-SCottony maple scale-S Citrus whitefly-SCitrus whitefly-S

Florida wax scale-SFlorida wax scale-S Two lined spittlebugs-STwo lined spittlebugs-S Juniper scale-SJuniper scale-S Bagworms-SBagworms-S Aphids-SAphids-S Lecanium scale-SLecanium scale-S Oak galls-POak galls-P

JulyJuly

Two spotted spider Two spotted spider mite-Smite-S

Crape myrtle aphid-SCrape myrtle aphid-S Dogwood borer-SDogwood borer-S Dogwood clubgall Dogwood clubgall

midge-Pmidge-P

Citrus whitefly-SCitrus whitefly-S Bagworms-SBagworms-S Maple and oak galls-PMaple and oak galls-P Cottony maple scale-SCottony maple scale-S

AugustAugust

Azalea caterpillar-SAzalea caterpillar-S Two spotted spider Two spotted spider

mite-Smite-S Crape myrtle aphid-SCrape myrtle aphid-S Citrus whitefly-SCitrus whitefly-S Bagworms-SBagworms-S

Insect galls on oaks-PInsect galls on oaks-P Two lined spittlebugs-STwo lined spittlebugs-S Orange striped Orange striped

oakworm-Soakworm-S Green striped Green striped

mapleworm-Smapleworm-S

SeptemberSeptember

Green striped mapleworm-SGreen striped mapleworm-S Orange striped oakworm-SOrange striped oakworm-S Azalea caterpillar-SAzalea caterpillar-S Crape myrtle aphid-SCrape myrtle aphid-S Citrus whitefly-SCitrus whitefly-S Two lined spittlebugs-STwo lined spittlebugs-S Bagworms-SBagworms-S

OctoberOctober

Southern red mite-SSouthern red mite-S Crape myrtle aphid-SCrape myrtle aphid-S Asian ambrosia beetle- PAsian ambrosia beetle- P Spruce spider mite-SSpruce spider mite-S Orange striped oakworm-SOrange striped oakworm-S

NovemberNovember

Southern red mite (azalea, camelia, holly)-SSouthern red mite (azalea, camelia, holly)-S Armored scales- DO (boxwood, camelia, Armored scales- DO (boxwood, camelia,

holly, gardenia, etc.)holly, gardenia, etc.) Spruce spider mite-SSpruce spider mite-S Bagworms- PBagworms- P Maple borers- PMaple borers- P Lecanium scale -DOLecanium scale -DO

DecemberDecember

Southern red mite (azalea, camelia, holly)-SSouthern red mite (azalea, camelia, holly)-S Armored scales- DO (boxwood, camelia, Armored scales- DO (boxwood, camelia,

holly, gardenia, etc.)holly, gardenia, etc.) Spruce spider mite-SSpruce spider mite-S Bagworms- PBagworms- P Maple borers- PMaple borers- P Lecanium scale -DOLecanium scale -DO