In the past 10 years, several significant pest and disease issues have become so common that we deal with them every day. Here are a few of the problems we encounter most frequently.
Boxwood Leafminer
Boxwoods continue to be the most popular evergreen shrub for hedges and borders. The Boxwood Leafminer is by far the most common insect pest of boxwood, infesting every species and variety. In early May, the adult leafminers, which resemble orange gnats, swarm around host boxwood plants to mate and lay eggs. The resulting larvae mine between the leaf layers, causing damage, sometimes to the point of defoliation. We have good success dealing with Boxwood Leafminer; accurate diagnosis and treatment strategies are the key to reliable results.
White Prunicola Scale
White Prunicola Scale continues to be the most widespread and damaging pest on the Main Line. Cherry laurel, privet, lilac, certain Ilex species, and flowering cherry are the most common hosts. This pest can cause dieback and significantly injure ornamental plants in only one season. Without understanding the insect’s lifecycle, treatments will be ineffective, leading to plant loss and client frustration. We have cracked the code for dealing with this pest and have been able to clean up heavy infestations in one season. If you have susceptible plants, it is wise to check the branches occasionally for the characteristic white ‘flocking’ the scale presents.
Pachysandra
Pachysandra is, for better or worse, by far the most widespread ground cover in use. A common fungal disease called Volutella blight is key to having any hope of controlling it. If your pachysandra beds are thin, spotted or even defoliated, give us a call so we can find a solution that gets your pachysandra looking good again!
