Update from the automatic pheromone traps in New Brunswick. First moth this year was caught in Saint Modeste (QC) on June 30. Pics are from trap captures for the nights of July 7-8 and 8-9. Catches have been mostly on the NW border of NB and South Tetagouche so far. Potential flights were in the SE direction the night of July 07-08.
Maine SBW Task Force
There were lot of moths on july 11 at Bonaventure on my car and others objects.
Location:
Northeastern Minnesota
Situation:
We are in year three of a SBW infestation.
An arborist treated our infected trees this Spring.
Much of the new growth was protected this year.
However, we still have an infestation of the moths.
Questions:
1. He can we get rid of the moths before they lay their eggs?
a. Traps
b. Sprays
c. Dusting
2. If we can’t kill the moths, can we impact their eggs ?
a. Prevent fertilization
b. Limit hatching of worms
3. What products are available to help us save our trees?
a. Specific to S B W.
b. Generic, OTC
.
It would be best to reach out to your state entomologist or University of Minnesota Extension for specific answers as states have different rules regarding pesticides.
In terms of the Spruce Budworm life cycle, larvae feed on new foliage growth through May and June then pupate and emerge as moths by mid-July. Adult moths will mate, lay eggs, and eventually die in the summer. In Maine, traps are used to track the pest, not control it. Large-scale spraying, as in Eastern Canada, has been used as an early intervention strategy but strictly on large, industry-owned forestlands. Yard trees can be sprayed to protect foliage and kill spruce budworm. Generally, pesticides must be applied early in the year prior to budworm needle feeding. The Minnesota Department of Agriculture has a list of licensed pesticide applicators if a homeowner is considering pesticide application.
Note that mention here of a pesticide or use of a pesticide label is for educational purposes only. Always follow the pesticide label directions attached to the pesticide container you are using. Remember, the label is the law.