May 6, 2020
New tool helps clients scout for box tree moth
The Box Tree Moth Industry Working Group has many tools available to landscape pros and home and property owners to help scout for box tree moth.
A native to eastern Asia, box tree moth was first discovered in North America in Etobicoke, Ont., in the late summer of 2018.
Larvae of box tree moth feed on boxwood foliage from mid-May to early September and may cause defoliation if left unchecked.
The flyer includes many colour images that show overwintering larvae and feeding damage from both young and mature larvae.
The tool also explains best practices for removing clippings in order to minimize the spread of the pest, as well as the need to employ a licensed landscape or lawn care professional that can treat infected plants with Dipel.
The industry group has been working closely with Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) and Ontario Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Rural Affairs (OMAFRA) to closely monitor and contain the spread of the pest.
For more information and resources, including the education piece, a pest identification card and details on lifecycle, visit HortTrades.com/box-tree-moth.