No. 4/May 15, 2009
Scouting Watch
Insects to watch for throughout the state of Illinois are highlighted.
Euonymus caterpillar
Euonymus caterpillar has been reported by the Morton Arboretum in northeastern Illinois.
Mosquitoes
Repeated heavy rainfall over the state has resulted in a lot of flooding of low-lying areas. This, along with the rising temperatures as we head towards summer, is setting us up for a heavy floodwater mosquito season.
Buffalo Gnats
Buffalo gnats, also known as black flies, are being reported in the Springfield area.
Pine Tip Blight
Diplodia tip blight causes the needles to die at the tips of branches, as well as sappy cankers on stems, girdling and killing the tissue beyond the cankers.
Ash Leaf Drop
Leaf drop of ash trees at this time of year (mid-late May) is usually caused by a fungal disease called ash anthracnose.
What is Stigmina of Spruce?
Stigmina is a fungus that has been found on spruce trees showing symptoms typical of Rhizosphaera needle cast
Invasive Species and Firewood
The dangers associated with transporting firewood throughout the state are discussed.