Crops Affected: Dogwood, apples, beech, blueberries, American chestnut, pecans, hickories, pine, ash, birch, oak, elm, and many other ornamental, fruit, and nut trees.

States Affected: WI, IL, IN, MI, OH, PA, NY, NJ, DE, CT, RI, MA, VT, NH, ME, WV, MD, VA, KY, TN, NC, SC, GA, FL, LA, MS, AL

Life Cycle: This clearwing moth resembles a wasp. Adults emerge in spring, with females depositing eggs singly, favoring injured bark areas; apple burr knots are particularly attractive for egg laying. Eggs hatch in eight to nine days, and larvae create extensive feeding galleries within bark wounds. The larval phase typically spans about a year, overwintering beneath the bark. In spring, they form dark brown silk and frass cocoons for pupation, which lasts about a month. Adult activity peaks at dawn and dusk. There is typically one generation annually, though some cooler climates may see a two-year development cycle.

Damage: Dogwood larvae burrow into the cambium of wood, causing affected regions to swell, form knots, calluses, or gall-like growths. Initially, their feeding is concentrated on the burr knot, but as it's consumed, they migrate to neighboring areas. Early signs include the shedding of wood bark, with other symptoms encompassing the expulsion of sawdust-like frass from the tunnels and premature reddening of leaves.

Season to Trap: April to June

How To Use: Hang trap with lure inside at shoulder height near at risk or affected crops. Replace lures every 30 days through the season, and replace traps when 70% saturated. Adult males are attracted to the pheromones in the lure and the color of the traps in this kit. Once they land on the sticky trap, they become ensnared, never to mate or lay eggs again.

Additional IPM Solutions: Avoid practices that destroy or disrupt native beneficial insects. Preventative actions are crucial in warding off dogwood borer damage. Avoid any physical harm to the plant, especially from lawnmowers. Newly planted trees should be secured against wind with bracing. It's essential to keep trees in good health, regularly pruning away dead or cankered branches. While tree wraps can yield mixed results, it's worth noting that using vinyl tree wraps around young dogwood trees has, in some cases, led to increased dogwood borer infestations. Encouraging the presence of birds can also aid in controlling the infestation.