While You Were Busy in 2008
Periodic News of Interest to the Horticulture Industry in Maine
Printable Version (.pdf)
Hemlock Woolly Adelgid Update (HWA)
New Infestations of HWA were found this year in Saco and Kennebunk. Help prevent the spread of this pest by following the quarantine when importing hemlocks and watching for signs of the white cottony masses on teh undersides of hemlock needles. Learn more about Importing Hemlock, read the HWA Quarantine (.doc), visit the Maine Forest Service HWA Page
Asian Longhorned Beetle (ALB)
In August ALB, a pest of maple and other trees, was detected for the first time in Worcester, MA. Previously, ALB was only found in NY, NJ and IL. A regulated area has been established to prevent the movement of ALB on plant material, such as firewood. Future outreach and survey efforts will include all New England states. Expect to hear more about this pest in the future. Visit Massachusett's ALB Page
Greenhouse Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Workshops
A series of greenhouse IPM workshops were conducted for greenhouse growers in teh Augusta area during this past spring season. Participants visited various area greenhouses and discussed using an IPM approach to pest management challenges. We hope to offer a series of workshops around the state in the spring of 2009. Contact Kathy Murray, (207)287-3891 for more information.
New Exotic Pest Finds
Several exotic pests were found in new locations this year. Oak wilt was found for the first time in New York. Chrysanthemum white rust was discovered again this year in CT and DE. Emerald ash borer continues to spread and was found in WI, MO, VA and Montreal. Visit New York's Oak Wilt Page, more information on emerald ash borer, and chryanthemum white rust
Greenhouse/Nursery Pest Conditions
Be sure to check incoming draceana spikes, sweet potato, ivy geraniums and thunbergia for spider mites and thrips. Introduced scarab beetles have come into Maine in recent years. The oriental beetle and European chafer are primarily turf pests, but the Asiatic garden beetle can cause damage on herbs and other garden plants as the adults come out at night to feed.
2008 Nursery Survey
10 Nurseries were surveyed for exotic pests including emerald ash borer, Asian longhorned beetle, hemlock woolly adelgid, light brown apple moth, summer fruit tortrix and Asian gypsy moth. None of the pests were found.
