Tuesdays with Annie 11 17 09

Hope you are tuned in; ready for the ‘No frills’ quiz about the Asian Longhorned Beetle. Let’s get to the ALB Facts.

Asian Longhorned Beetles are a serious pest in China.
True. In China, the ALB kills hardwood trees in roadside plantings, shelterbelts and plantations. China is believed to be the source of origin for the Asian Longhorned Beetles in the United States via wood packing material used in shipments.

The Asian Longhorned Beetle has a distinctive white spot between its wing covers, near its head.
False. The Whitespotted Pine Sawyer, which has this distinctive white spot is often mistaken for Asian Longhorned Beetle. The Asian Longhorned beetle is jet-shiny black with stark white blotches and does not have this distinctive white spot near its head. The Whitespotted Pine Sawyer is a dull brown-black and also attacks a different species of trees.

The Pine tree is a host for Asian Longhorned Beetle.
False. Conifers are actually one species that the Asian Longhorned Beetle does not attack; another distinctive factor between the Whitespotted Pine Sawyer and the Asian Longhorned Beetle. Maple trees, with the exception of Japanese Maples are the hardest hit species. Other ALB host trees include Birch, Elm, Willow, Hackberry, Sycamore, London Plane, Ash, Poplar, Katsura and Silktree.

Adult Asian Longhorned Beetles emerge from the trees in May.
False. The adult beetle typically emerges in July but may be spotted in late June. If you believe you found an Asian Longhorned Beetle in May, it is most likely another type of pest. However, if you aren’t sure, it is always best to report a potential sighting or tree damage to your state’s Department of Agricultural Resources or the USDA. Taking a photo and emailing the insect or the tree damage expedites the process for these experts.

Asian Longhorned Beetles only attack weak, diseased trees.
False. These beetles will attack host trees that are healthy, one of the reasons that eradicating this beetle is of utmost importance.

Most of the ALB activity takes place in the upper canopy of the trees. Late fall to early winter, when the trees are bare is a perfect time to spot AL B damage in host trees. For any sightings in New England, you may call the toll-free number at 866-702-9938. For more information, visit the website http://massnrc.org/pests/alb Please note that the above facts and photographs are from this website and class handouts. If you are interested in having a trainer session in your town, you can contact the above agency to learn more about these classes.

Another Martin H. Fischer quote is appropriate for the inspirational gardening thought of the day. “All the world is a laboratory to the inquiring mind.” As gardeners, we too should see the world this way. Annie.