No. 6/June 3, 2013
Mimosa Webworm
Mimosa webworm is susceptible to control at this time in southern Illinois. Spraying the foliage of attacked trees with Bacillus thuringiensis kurstaki (Dipel, Thuricide), spinosad (Conserve), or labeled pyrethroid insecticide at this time should provide control. Treatment will be successful in central and northern Illinois in about two weeks.
Honey Bee Health Report by USDA and EPA
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) released a comprehensive scientific report on honey bee health on May 2, 2013. The report states that there are multiple factors playing a role in honey bee colony declines, including parasites and disease, genetics, poor nutrition and pesticide exposure.
Taphrina Diseases
Taphrina is a fungal genus within Ascomycetes that infects numerous ornamental and fruit trees. Taphrina pathogens thrive in cool, wet weather, and depending on the plant species, can cause symptoms such as leaf curls, blisters, stem dieback, and fruit deformation.
Modified Growing Degree Days (Base 50°F, March 1 through May 30)
Insect development is temperature dependent. We can use degree days to help predict insect emergence and activity.