No. 6/July 8, 2022
Japanese Beetles on Ornamental Plants
They’re back! Adult Japanese beetles (Popillia japonica) have emerged in Illinois and are beginning to feed on ornamental plants. Japanese beetle adults have a broad host range, feeding on over 100 plant species including linden, buckeye, rose, crabapple, apple, grape, and raspberry. They may feed on the foliage, flowers and fruits of their host plants, skeletonizing leaves so only the leaf veins remain. Beetles tend to feed on and damage the upper portions of plants which can lead to heavy damage in the tops of trees. In some cases, this means that the damage can go unnoticed by passers-by and may not require treatment. While the damage can be unsightly, it does not usually result in dieback or the death of the plant.
Illinois Laws Regulating Noxious, Exotic Weeds
The State of Illinois has two “legal” lists of problematic plants that require attention – Noxious Weeds and Exotic Weeds.
Monitoring and Mitigating Drought Stress in the Landscape
Water is essential for plants. Without water, a plant begins to experience stress, whether reduced growth, cupping leaves or curling, or turning brown. Drought stress also inhibits physiological plant functions, increasing susceptibility to pests and other sources of injury. Drought-stressed plants tend to be more susceptible to climate extremes, insects, plant pathogens, animals, and nutrient deficiencies.
New Poison Hemlock Factsheet Available
Poison hemlock is a toxic plant found commonly along roadsides and railroads and in ditches, pastures, and other open areas. Populations in Illinois seem to be on the rise. This new factsheet produced by the University of Illinois Extension provides information on the risks associated with poison hemlock and how to identify and manage it. Access this printable guide via the following web address go.illinois.edu/PoisonHemlock.