August 10, 2023
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As a leading landscaping company in Ann Arbor, Twin Oaks Landscape remains dedicated to staying current with industry developments. We want to bring your attention to a recent announcement by the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) regarding the box tree moth, an invasive species with the potential to harm ornamental boxwood plants.
Effective since April 10, 2023, the original quarantine encompassed Lenawee, Washtenaw, parts of Monroe, and Jackson counties.
The Box Tree Moth quarantine area has undergone an extensive update, now encompassing Clinton, Eaton, Ingham, Jackson, Lenawee, Livingston, Monroe, Oakland, Washtenaw, and Wayne counties. This crucial measure restricts the movement of boxwood plant parts and nursery stock outside the quarantined area and aims to curb the spread of the invasive pest.
Be vigilant for signs of stress in your boxwood plants, like yellowing or missing leaves, which could indicate an infestation. Twin Oaks’ landscape maintenance plan includes vigilant monitoring during monthly bed maintenance visits.
Reporting Infestations: If you suspect box tree moth infestation, report it online at www.Michigan.gov/ReportBTM. Your action can prevent further spread and safeguard Michigan’s green industry.
For comprehensive information on the quarantine and effective solutions, visit www.aphis.usda.gov/planthealth/box-tree-moth.
In a related development, the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) has announced a revision to the State of Michigan’s interior hemlock woolly adelgid quarantine, effective from August 1, 2023. This revision includes the addition of Benzie and Manistee counties, along with a portion of Washtenaw County in proximity to the Nichols Arboretum. The previous quarantine encompassed Allegan, Mason, Muskegon, Oceana, and Ottawa counties.
Under this quarantine, the movement of hemlock and tiger-tail spruce trees, forest products, and nursery stock within the quarantine areas is regulated, subject to exceptions, to prevent further infestation spread.
Mike Philip, Director of MDARD’s Pesticide and Plant Pest Management Division, emphasized the need to protect Michigan’s 170 million hemlock trees due to their impact on streamside habitat conditions and overall stream health. He highlighted the potential risks of losing hemlock trees, including elevated water temperatures and increased soil erosion in streams.
Trees infested with hemlock woolly adelgid can be reported through various channels, including:
The expansion of the quarantine area aims to curb the spread of hemlock woolly adelgid and its potential to cause substantial losses in various industries, including timber, lumber, nursery, landscaping, Christmas trees, and tourism. The goal is to prevent the pest from moving to new areas within the state and to slow its spread within current infested regions.
To facilitate accurate reporting, be prepared to provide the location of infested trees and accompanying photographs of infested branches. The updated hemlock woolly adelgid interior quarantine details can be found at www.Michigan.gov/HWA. For suspected quarantine violations, report to MDARD-NurseryCE@michigan.gov. For comprehensive information on invasive species in Michigan, visit Michigan.gov/Invasives.
The emergence of an invasive pest has prompted both landscape companies and homeowners to reconsider their choices for planting. While the classic boxwoods and hemlocks face the threat of replacement, there are several appealing alternatives that can maintain the charm of your landscape. Here, we present a selection of suggested replacements that can bring both beauty and resilience to your outdoor spaces.
Beyond the realm of evergreens, countless deciduous shrubs stand as suitable substitutes for boxwoods and yews. The world of plants offers a vast array of choices to explore and consider.
Our specialists are poised to guide you through the process of making the best choices for your unique landscape needs.
From classic alternatives to innovative selections, we’re here to help you craft a resilient and captivating outdoor environment while remaining dedicated to keeping you informed about industry trends. Stay informed. Stay green. Twin Oaks Landscape.
Our experienced and talented team of landscapers can take care of even the biggest projects. Contact us today, and let’s start talking about your new landscape!
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