Arthropod Management Update

How cool has it been compared to 1999?

The following table shows a final comparison of degree-day accumulation, base 50F, from January 1 between 2000 and 1999.    There is no doubt that the cool weather affected arthropod development.   In the next issue of the newsletter, we will summarize arthropod trap captures and observations for the season.

Roundheaded Apple Tree Borers  -- Now is a good time to check trunks near the soil line for small holes plugged with red sawdust.  This is a sign of infestation by larvae of this insect.    If not removed, larvae can tunnel in the tree for 2-3 years, seriously weakening or killing the tree.  Although it is very time consuming,   "worming" by digging out shallow larvae with a knife or using a wire for larvae in deeper tunnels is beneficial.