Current Conditions
Fluctuating weather conditions continued over the past couple of weeks, with a cold front replacing warm temperatures with raw, windy, damp weather. Seasonal temperatures were mixed in with brief periods of heavy rain in some places and drastic overnight lows. Crabapples, cherries, horsechestnuts, rhododendrons, azaleas, redbud, Amelanchier, lilacs and viburnums are coming into full bloom. Full leaf out is almost complete, with some oaks still slowly unfolding foliage. Soil temperatures are at an average of 56 degrees, with some regions experiencing flooding while others are dry, monitor plants and adjust watering regime accordingly. Much of the northeast has received only 0.30 inches of rain, but the soil seems to have retained moisture. Weeds are breaking through in lawns and in beds. Wintermoth caterpillar, hemlock woolly adelgid (the population in the north east appears smaller this year, most likely attributed to the extended, cold winter) and black legged ticks continue to be active as more pests appear on the scene.
Prevailing Pests
Discussed below are some of the insects whose activity has recently been noted. This is not an all inclusive list, please coordinate with your arborist regarding your landscape concerns and possible treatments.
Plants experiencing the above stated pest problems may have been identified and planned for earlier in the season. Continue with management plan as provided by your arborist, weather conditions may affect timing of applications but adjustments will be made to provide the most effective control. Contact your arborist should you have further concerns or if you suspect a new problem has cropped up.