317Grow Blog
Read . Grow . Thrive
Another major tree pest has emerged: the spotted lanternfly. This striking planthopper was first identified in Pennsylvania in 2014, and while it has not yet become widespread, it has the potential to spread quickly. Tree-lovers everywhere need to be on high alert. Spotted lanternfly targets grapes, hops, and the invasive tree of heaven first, but it can also attack and kill maples, oaks, fruit trees, pines, sycamores, willows, walnuts, and poplars.
Did you know that some of the plants sold at many big box stores, garden centers, and nurseries are invasive species? An invasive species is a non-native species with the ability to grow, reproduce, and spread quickly to push out native species and cause ecosystem damage and/or economic harm. The classic plant examples are Asian honeysuckle and kudzu. Invasive species make their way into our ecosystems in all kinds of ways, but when it comes to invasive plants one of the most common ways they are introduced is through ornamental use.
In a world of global commerce and travel, it's inevitable that species will find themselves living in new places both by accident and by design. Some of our most beloved garden plants are from other continents, and they get along quite well with our native plants. However, some non-native species can invade an ecosystem and cause all kinds of damage to the unsuspecting native flora and fauna. Today we'll introduce a particularly insidious new invader with the potential to change both our wild and managed landscapes: the Asian Longhorned Beetle.
Emerald Ash Borer is an invasive and destructive beetle from Asia. It was first found in the U.S. in Michigan 2002, and it arrived in Indiana in 2004. It can now be found in almost every county in the state. Emerald Ash Borer, or EAB, is a threat to urban and natural forests all over the country because they attack and kill our native ash trees (and now possibly white fringe tree). Until EAB arrived on the scene, ash trees were among America's favorite city trees because of their attractive appearance, ability to tolerate urban conditions, and lack of serious pest or disease issues. In some communities, up to 40% of the street trees are ash trees, and they are all at risk of dying. Let's learn a little more about this insect, what it does to our trees, and how to stop it.
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