According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Emerald Ash Borer has been responsible for the decline and death of more than 25 million ash trees in the United States.There have been several sitings in Michigan and in certain parts of Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Pennsylvania, West Virginia and Maryland.
Adult beetles are a bright metallic green color. They have rounded abdomens and flat backs. They are present from mid-May through late July.
Things to watch for with Emerald Ash Borer:
Has another storm brought distress to your yard – maybe uprooted some trees, possibly broken branches, and stray debris around? Well, as a proud homeowner, I know you are understandably tempted to fire up that old chain saw that is in your garage... Please - please don't!
Tree work is very dangerous, and with post-storm cleanup there are a new set of hazards that come with the territory. Take my advice - stay safe...and...hire a professional arborist instead.
The Giant African Snail feeds on approximately more than 500 types of plants. When fruits and vegetables are not available, it will feed on ornamental plants, tree bark and often paint and stucco on houses, causing structural damage to the house. One sign of this pest is seeing the large snail, which is typically the size of an adult fist. These snails are located in Florida and Hawaii, but they have also been found elsewhere in the U.S. in classrooms for use in science lessons by teachers who are unaware of this threat. This is another pest that we hope to not see feeding on our trees in Michigan.
The Giant African Snail
The light brown apple moth causes the greatest damage to backyard gardens and produce. Some of the plants are items tree care professionals may treat, including Poplar and Eucalyptus trees. Signs include visible caterpillars and adult moths, as well as damaged fruit or vegetables. The moth is found in California and Hawaii. Hopefully we won't see it in Michigan. However, it is good to be aware of these pests.
Light Brown Apple Moth
Sudden Oak death (SOD) is caused by a water mold pathogen. It is considered to be dangerous because it affects a wide variety of trees and there is no known cure. Signs include bark cankers, leaf spots and twig dieback. SOD is currently in California and Oregon. Hopefully we never see this in Michigan.
Sudden Oak Death