Buckeye Yard and Garden onLine

BUCKEYE YARD AND GARDEN LINE 2008-11

6/12//08

From: Pam Bennett, Barb Bloetscher, Joe Boggs, Cindy Burskey, Jim Chatfield, Erik Draper, Dave Dyke, Gary Gao, David Goerig, Tim Malinich, Becky McCann, Amy Stone, and Curtis Young.

This is the 11th 2008 edition of the Buckeye Yard and Garden Line (BYGL). BYGL is developed from a Tuesday morning conference call of Extension Educators, Specialists, and other contributors in Ohio.

BYGL is available via email, contact Cheryl Fischnich [ This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it ] to subscribe. Additional Factsheet information on any of these articles may be found through the OSU fact sheet database [ http://plantfacts.osu.edu/ ].

BYGL is a service of OSU Extension and is aided by major support from the ONLA (Ohio Nursery and Landscape Association) [ http://onla.org/ ] and [ http://buckeyegardening.com/ ] to the OSU Extension Nursery, Landscape and Turf Team (ENLTT). Any materials in this newsletter may be reproduced for educational purposes providing the source is credited.

BYGL is available online at: [ http://bygl.osu.edu ], a web site sponsored by the Ohio State University Department of Horticulture and Crop Sciences (HCS) as part of the "Horticulture in Virtual Perspective." The online version of BYGL has images associated with the articles and links to additional information.

Following are the participants in the June 10 conference call: Barb Bloetscher (Entomology/C. Wayne Ellett Plant and Pest Diagnostic Clinic (CWEPPDC)); Joe Boggs (Hamilton/Piketon); Dave Dyke (Hamilton); Gary Gao (Delaware); Michael Loos (Cuyahoga); Dave Shetlar (Entomology); Amy Stone (Lucas); Becky McCann (ABE Center); Shawn Wright (OSU Piketon Centers); Curtis Young (Allen); and Randy Zondag (Lake).

In This Issue:

1. WEATHERWATCH.

2. HORT SHORTS: GDD (Growing Degree Days); Plants of the Week [Astilbe; Wishbone Flower; Clematis; and Black Medic].

3. BUGBYTES: Ants in Your Bags; Periodical Update; Privet Problems; Structural Pests; Seeing Red Spots?; and Windshield Wipes [Cottony Maple Leaf Scale; Pearleaf Blister Mite; Bagworm; Japanese Beetle; Northern Masked Chafer Beetle; Clearwing Borers; European Fruit Lecanium; Calico Scales; Euonymus, Oystershell, Pine Needle, and Juniper Scales; and Armyworm].

4. DISEASE DIGEST: Black Spot of Roses.

5. TURF TIPS: Just Keep on Mowin'; and Red Thread on Turf.

6. INDUSTRY INSIGHTS: New Insecticide Labeled; and Ashalert.OSU.EDU.

7. COMING ATTRACTIONS: Northwest Ohio Green Industry Summer Session.

1. WEATHERWATCH. What a week! The commonality of nearly all the weather reports could be described in a single word - "spottiness." Becky McCann and Amy Stone reported very high winds and localized down pores in northwest, Ohio. A combination of high temperatures and drying winds caused some wilting of plant foliage. In areas that were missed by the rains, the soil remains dry.

Pam Bennett's report began with "be careful what you wish for." During last week's call, Pam lamented that Clark County was dry and needed rain. Within a 28 hour period, 4.5" of rain fell, causing considerable flash flooding. The ponds at the entrance of the corporate park where the Extension office is located overflowed their banks, meeting in the middle of the road.

In the south, Shawn Wright reported lots of rain had also fallen. Over 4" fell in Ross County, with a record high 91.7F recorded on June 6. Joe Boggs explained that the Cincinnati area is above normal in rainfall total for the year, compared to the same time last year when rainfall totals were less than normal. Recent rains brought heavy amounts that could not completely soak into the landscapes, but rather ran-off the site. These types of rainfall events illustrate the importance of checking your local soil for moisture content instead of relying solely on the regional weather stations.

The following weather information summarizes data collected at various OARDC Weather Stations spanning the dates June 1, 2008 - June 11, 2008, with the exception of the soil temperatures, which are readings from Wednesday, June 11 at 6:00 p.m.

For a link to the OARDC Weather Stations, visit: [ http://www.oardc.ohio-state.edu/centernet/weather.htm ]

2. HORT SHORTS:

A. GDD (GROWING DEGREE DAYS). GDD is a measure of the daily maximum and minimum temperature and directly relates to growth and development of plants and insects. The GDD of any zip code location in Ohio is estimated using the GDD of ten OARDC weather stations and available on the web at the site below.

The range of GDD accumulations in Ohio from north to south is 644 to 931. Following is a report of GDD for several locations around Ohio as of June 10, 2008: Painesville, 644; Cleveland, 675; Toledo, 721; Canfield, 681; Lima, 713; Wooster, 698; Coshocton, 737; Columbus, 841; Springfield, 730; Dayton, 743; Cincinnati, 821; Ironton, 882; Portsmouth, 887; and Piketon, 931.

To put these GDD accumulations into perspective, the following is an abbreviated listing of plant and insect species with their respective phenological event and average GDD accumulations at which these events occur. Due to variations in weather, temperature, humidity, etc., these events may occur a few days earlier or later than predicted by the average GDD. By looking at a city, town, or village near you from the above list, or visiting the above web site, you can see what could be taking place in the landscape around you.

Arrowwood viburnum, full bloom, 621; multiflora rose, full bloom, 643; northern catalpa, first bloom, 675; black vine weevil, first leaf notching due to adult feeding, 677; Washington hawthorn, full bloom, 731; calico scale, egg hatch, 748; greater peach tree borer, adult emergence, 775; rhododendron borer, adult emergence, 815; northern catalpa, full bloom, 816; mountain laurel, full bloom, 822; dogwood borer, adult emergence, 830; oakleaf hydrangea, first bloom, 835; cottony maple scale, egg hatch, 851; panicle hydrangea, first bloom, 856; fall webworm, egg hatch (first generation), 867; mimosa webworm, egg hatch (first generation), 874; fuzzy deutzia, full bloom, 884; winged euonymus scale, egg hatch, 892; spruce budscale, egg hatch, 894; winterberry holly, full bloom, 897; panicled goldenraintree, first bloom, 924; and June bride littleleaf linden, first bloom, 953.

B. PLANTS OF THE WEEK. Read all about perennials and landscape trees and shrubs in the ONLA publications "Perennial Plants for Ohio" and "Landscape Plants for Ohio." The descriptions and photographs of plants were provided for these publications by the OSU ENLT Team along with other industry plant lovers. These full-color publications are available at [ http://Buckeyegardening.com ] for $5.00. Click on "garden store" and then "ONLA plant guides." ONLA members can purchase these in quantities at a reduced price at [ http://onla.org ].

*PERENNIAL PLANT OF THE WEEK. ASTILBE (Astilbe spp.) - It won't be long before these colorful shade-loving plants burst into full bloom in Ohio gardens. One of the best plants for color in the shade, Astilbe prefers rich organic matter and consistently moist soil; however, many cultivars tolerate not-so-rich clay soils once they establish. If the soil dries out completely, leaf margins burn, therefore, keep consistently moist throughout the summer during drought conditions. Once the plume-like blooms finish, shear the plant back to just below the flower stems. The result is a beautiful foliage plant that accents the garden. Flower color depends upon cultivar and ranges from pinks, to whites, to apricots, to dark reds. Try A. chinensis 'Visions' for plants that have tougher foliage that is more tolerant to sun than A. arendsii cultivars. Plants grow anywhere from 6-8" tall (ground cover species) to 3' tall.

* ANNUAL PLANT OF THE WEEK. WISHBONE FLOWER - (Torenia fournieri) - This excellent annual for shade gardens is appropriately named. Take a close look deep into the flower and one understands how it came by the name; the stamens are fused together and resemble the Thanksgiving turkey wishbone. Years ago, gardeners were very limited on the choices of this flower but not today. New cultivars include the 'Clown', 'Duchess', and 'Summer Wave' series; each having their own characteristics. It is excellent in a container or in a bed or border in the shade. Colors vary in the purple, pink, and magenta ranges. The plants grow to around 8" tall and spread about the same.

*WOODY PLANT OF THE WEEK. CLEMATIS (Clematis spp.) - This outstanding woody vine is excellent for a trellis, wall, or other structure. Many varieties are in beautiful bloom. Plants can grow 10 to 20' if supported. The key to success with Clematis is "warm on the top and cool on the bottom." Plants prefer full sun for the blooms but roots require some shading to keep them cool; mulch and organic matter helps to create the shade. Avoid wet soils as they do not tolerate this environment. The most common varieties are C.x jackmanii cultivars and bloom in June. The fall-blooming Clematis, C. ternifolia is an excellent plant for later color and has a wonderful fragrance. It is an aggressive grower and tolerates heavy spring-pruning to keep it in check. Clematis is an excellent plant for alkaline soils.

*THE WEEKLY WEED. BLACK MEDIC, (Medicago lupulina), a member of the bean family (Fabaceae), is this week's weed of the week. This low-growing, creeping weed is well adapted to many lawn situations. It is most commonly found in full sun, soils low in nitrogen fertility, and thin turf cover. It has hairy, trailing, light green or reddish green stems rising from a tap root. It does not however, root from nodes on the stems. The roots add nitrogen to the soil by forming an association with rhizobial bacteria.

Often black medic is confused with white clover and yellow woodsorrel. When these plants are in bloom, their flowers make identification easy. Black medics flowers are small, yellow, globe-shaped clusters, of 15-50 yellow flowers. White clover inflorescences occur in ball-shaped white to pink clusters of flowers that are held slightly above the foliage. Yellow woodsorrel flowers are yellow with five petals. They are up to 1/2 inch across and borne at end of stems in clusters of one to four.

The leaves or leaflets can also be used to identify each species. Black medic is the easiest to identify by its leaflets. They are arranged alternately on the stem, and have three wedge-shaped leaflets. Black medic's center leaflet is on a separate petiole. White clover's leaves are dark green and often have faint, lighter green to white splotch in the middle. Yellow woodsorrel leaves are heart shaped and often times folded along the midvein.

Cultural practices for managing black medic can be very effective. It can be hand pulled. Good turf management practices promoting thick, healthy turf make it difficult for black medic to persist. Relieving compacted soil is an important cultural control. Other cultural practices that promote lawn growth include high mowing in hot weather, thorough deep watering during hot dry periods, and fertilizing, primarily in the fall.

Apply postemergent broadleaf herbicides during periods of active growth from late spring through early summer and again from early through mid-autumn. Be sure to read and follow the product's label instructions and precautions.

3. BUGBYTES.

A. ANTS IN YOUR BAGS. Curtis Young reported receiving a call from a concerned gardener that she might be infesting her gardens with ants that she discovered in bags of mulch she was spreading in her landscape. There have been incidences in the past when wood destroying insects were discovered associated with mulch to be used in landscapes, such as termites and black carpenter ants. However, there is a multitude of other ant species that can colonize mulch that are not destructive to wood but may be classified as nuisance type species. Bagged mulch can become infested in a short period of time especially if the bags are stacked on the ground. One species that is very common in Ohio and can easily move a colony into a bag of mulch is the PAVEMENT ANT (Tetramorium caespitum). This is the ant species frequently seen in masses on sidewalks and driveways (actually two colonies battling one another).

Insects discovered in bags of mulch should be identified to be certain as to the significance of the trespasser. The user of the mulch has a couple of options as to how to handle an infested bag of mulch. These options include: 1) do not use the infested mulch, especially if it was determined to be a wood destroying invader, and if it were very recently purchased, bag(s) might be returned to the seller; or 2) use the mulch in an isolated bedding area away from any structure that might be invaded by the insects. Once the mulch is spread, it could be treated with an insecticide recommended for nuisance ants in the yard.

B. A PERIODICAL UPDATE. BYGLers reported that the activity of BROOD XIV of the 17-YEAR PERIODICAL CICADA is reaching a cacophonous and odoriferous crescendo in Ohio. Dave Dyke, Shawn Wright, and Joe Boggs reported encountering impressive mobs of cicadas in the southern and southwestern parts of the state. Smashed cicada bodies were observed littering several roadways including sections of I-75 and I-71. Male cicadas have been "singing" for more than a week and Joe noted that communication among participants at Monday's BYGLive! Diagnostic Walk-About in Indian Hill was seriously challenged by the competing synchronized drone of male cicadas.

The recent hot temperatures have shifted cicada activity into hyper-drive and Extension phone lines are buzzing with calls from concerned homeowners. Some homeowners are reporting kamikaze cicadas dive-bombing landscape maintenance equipment such as mowers and leaf-blowers. It is speculated that this odd behavior is associated with the cicada's sensitivity to certain audio wavelengths. Using gas powered equipment in the early morning hours when the cicadas are least active will help to minimize the problem.

Homeowners are also complaining of foul odors wafting from heaps of dead cicadas. Raking the obvious piles at the base of trees into garbage bags for disposal does little to suppress the stench since decaying cicada carcasses are typically spread over wide areas.

Thankfully, the end is near. Oviposition is now in full-swing in Ohio, which means cicada numbers will soon decline, along with the stench. Unfortunately, it also means the damage caused by the females as they lay their eggs will soon become evident in the form of branch and twig dieback (flagging). Fortunately, the damage has limited impact on the overall health of established trees.

C. PRIVET PROBLEMS. Dave Shetlar noticed both privet thrips and rust mites on some chlorotic looking privets this week. The ERIOPHYID RUST MITE (Aculus ligustri) causes privet leaves to pucker, fold inward, and fall. With a good hand lens, one can see these tiny, four legged mites under bud scales and on affected leaves.

These carrot-shaped mites were originally from California but have adapted to the cooler climates in Ohio, where they feed and multiply until hot summer weather ensues. As soon as buds begin to unfurl in spring, the females emerge from bud scales and move to leaves to lay eggs. Generations will overlap to such extent during prolonged cool periods that numbers can reach over 2000 rust mites per leaf!

THRIPS are almost as tiny- 1mm long, wedge shaped insects with rasping mouthparts. Adults have long slender wings with a fringe of hair. They dart quickly to the opposite side of the leaf when disturbed, so are difficult to see; however the bruising, chlorotic speckling, and black, sticky frass deposits on the bottoms of leaves helps to diagnose the pest.

Thrips feed by scraping the epidermis of the leaves and sucking the liquids that ooze out. Although many species of thrips thrive in Ohio, the privet thrips, (Dendrothrips ornatus) is only found on privet species. Privet thrips adults lay eggs on leaves in late spring and will continue until summer or until the leaves are unfit for thrips to consume.

Fortunately, both pests can be controlled if caught before severe damage befalls the privets. Treat with a horticultural oil or insecticidal soap as directed or refer to OSU B504 “Insects and Mites of Trees, Shrubs and Herbaceous Perennials” for other insecticides labeled for them at http://ohioline.osu.edu/b504/index.html

D. STRUCTURAL PESTS. Springtails are still appearing in structures, usually in the basement and bathroom where the humidity is higher and moisture is more plentiful. Although they can be a nuisance indoors, springtails are fairly harmless as they feed on molds and organic debris. Mainly, they are indicators of a moisture problem. If springtails are still being found indoors late into the spring/summer season, the reason for their presence is that moisture is high around the perimeter. Check for leaking pipes, condensation on outdoor spigots, and gutters that may be overflowing near the foundation. Make sure that the soil grade falls away from the building instead of toward it and keep any source of water away from the foundation. Insecticides are usually not necessary if the source of the water problem is corrected.

E. SEEING RED SPOTS? Calls have been received concerning bright red mites crawling over sidewalks, decks, roofs, and walls. Although one might assume they are European red mites, the clue to their identification is that mainly they are not on plant tissue. Instead, these soft, bright red mites are either Balustium species (Family Erythraeida), or red velvet mites (Family Trombidiidae).

Balustium mites are oval and reddish gray with short, stiff hairs covering the body. The front legs point forward, and a gap is obvious between the second and third set of legs. Balustium mites suck plant juices from certain crops but usually are not considered to be pests.

Velvet mites have a soft, velvety, misshapen appearance, and are considered to be predators on small insects and insect eggs. They are often seen on flowers in clusters as they eat pollen grains. Their specialized chelicerae enable them to grab a grain of pollen and pierce it, then suck the nutrients. When they breed in early spring, the population rises significantly. On sunny days the overflow is often seen crawling onto warm surfaces. They commonly creep inside buildings through cracks and crevices of windows, doors, and siding, causing irritation and dismay to the building inhabitants.

Although insecticides inserted in cracks and crevices will reduce the number of these active mites, they are mostly beneficial. To exclude them from inside, caulk and seal openings and make sure screens are in good condition.

F. WINDSHIELD WIPES. BYGLers also ran into a few other insects and mites this week, including:

* Dave Shetlar reported finding a healthy population of COTTONY MAPLE LEAF SCALE (Pulvinaria acericola) on the underside of the leaves of its namesake in central Ohio. Dave indicated the females were exuding their conspicuous, elongated, white, cottony ovisacs which may contain over 2,500 eggs. Despite its common name, this scale may also be found on dogwoods, hollies, andromeda, honeysuckle, sassafras, and sourgum. The cottony scale seldom causes enough damage to landscape trees to warrant control; however, it is a copious producer of honeydew and the sweet, sticky material may become colonized by black sooty molds, creating an unsightly mess.

* Joe Boggs reported that PEARLEAF BLISTER MITE (Phytoptus pyri) damage on ornamental pear leaves is becoming evident in southwest Ohio. This microscopic eriophyid mite lives between the upper and lower leaf surfaces. Their feeding activity produces small, distinct blisters on the upper leaf surface and rough, irregular patches of necrotic tissue on the lower surface. The blisters are currently light-green, but they will eventually turn pinkish-red, and finally brownish-black. Although high populations of this mite produce dramatic symptoms, damage is seldom significant relative to tree health. Control is generally not warranted since high populations on landscape trees seldom occur over successive years.

* Dave Shetlar reported BAGWORM (Thyridopteryx ephemeraeformis) hatching in large numbers in Delaware and Franklin Counties, Ohio. After checking a number of bags from last year, it appears that most bagworms have hatched in these counties. Curtis Young checked bags in Allen County Ohio after Dave's report and found that bagworm had also hatched in his area.

* While spading over a new garden area in his landscape, Dave Shetlar reported finding JAPANESE BEETLE (Popillia japonica) grubs pupating. NORTHERN MASKED CHAFER BEETLE (Cyclocephals borealis) grubs appeared to be clearing their intestinal tracts in preparation for pupation. Thus, in a couple of weeks, it is expected that new adults of each of these scarab beetles should be emerging on the scene.

* Several important CLEARWING BORERS should be flying by this time. In northern Ohio these borers should include lilac/ash and lesser peach tree borers. In southern Ohio several additional borers should be flying such as greater peach tree, rhododendron, and dogwood borers.

* Dave Shetlar reported that almost all of the soft scale insects are in full egg production in the Columbus area. A few soft scales have started egg hatch and crawlers are exposed. Examples of these soft scales are EUROPEAN FRUIT LECANIUM and CALICO SCALES. Numerous hard scale insects have already started or completed their first egg hatch of the season. Some of these hard scale insects include EUONYMUS, OYSTERSHELL, PINE NEEDLE, and JUNIPER SCALES.

* Curtis Young reported ARMYWORM (Pseudaletia unipuncta) caterpillars migrating across sidewalks from one grassy area to another. Curtis also discovered hundreds of armyworm caterpillars migrating out of a wheat field into an adjacent homeowner's lawn, devouring everything in their path. Golf courses and homeowners alike should be on the look out for migrating armyworms if there are nearby wheat fields or grass hay fields.

4. DISEASE DIGEST.

A. BLACK SPOT OF ROSES. BYGLers received phone calls about controlling black spots on roses. Black spot is the most important infectious disease of roses. It occurs only on roses (Rosa spp.), and is widespread among rose species and cultivars, although some of the shrub roses and rugosa roses show more resistance. Many hybrid tea roses are very susceptible. Lists of black spot‑resistance hybrid tea roses often are variable due to localized races of the pathogen. Consult your local garden centers, nurseries, and rose societies for recommended cultivars.

Round to irregular black splotches with fringed margins are quite obvious, mostly on upper leaf surfaces. Leaf yellowing develops around these black spots, with defoliation of these infected leaves common. Repeated defoliation weakens plants, leading to poorer blooming and greater sensitivity to other stresses. Occasionally symptoms are noted on petals (red dots, distortions), and on petioles, fruit, and canes. Control measures for black spot include keeping foliage dry, removing all black spotted leaves from and around plants, planting resistant cultivars, and preventive fungicide sprays on susceptible cultivars.

5. TURF TIPS.

A. JUST KEEP ON MOWIN'. Despite much of Ohio experiencing near record high temperatures, several BYGLers bemoaned the lack of a reprieve in their twice-a-week mowing schedules. Consistent rainfall throughout the recent string of hot days has supported strong grass growth on well-managed lawns in many areas of the state. Of course, this is actually a good thing.

Turfgrass that is only slowly growing and/or is off-colored despite receiving adequate moisture to support strong turfgrass growth may signal a number of cultural problems including low soil fertility and poor drainage. Worse, these cultural problems may spawn other turfgrass challenges. In BYGL 2008-08 (5/29/08), we reported that RED THREAD is on the rise. The disease is caused by the fungal pathogen Laetisaria fuciformis, and all cool-season grasses are susceptible; however, infections are usually associated with poor turfgrass vigor.

Currently, there is some concern that nitrogen applied in a quick-release form early in the spring may have "left the building" due to plant uptake or leaching. Of course, extreme care must be taken in making a nitrogen application now. Too much nitrogen during the summer can make turfgrass more susceptible to other disease problems. If a nitrogen deficit is suspected, the safest choice is to use a fertilizer that contains a high percentage (more than 50%) of a slow-release form of nitrogen.

Poor drainage is another concern. Heavy clay soils and/or compacted soils will interfere with water drainage as well as turfgrass root growth. A hollow-tine core aerator will help to alleviate drainage challenges; however, there is some risk in aerating lawns at this time of the year. Should the current hot and wet conditions shift to hot and dry, the open aeration holes could stress turfgrass plants by enhancing soil drying. One option is to top-dress the lawn with organic matter (e.g. compost) and back-drag after aeration to fill the holes with the organic matter and loose soil. Of course, the safest option is to wait until fall to aerate when drying conditions subside.

Finally, poor turfgrass vigor and/or red thread infections may also be the result of a nutrient deficit other than nitrogen (e.g. phosphorus or potassium). The soil should be tested in lawns that have received adequate nitrogen this spring, but are still looking puny.

B. RED THREAD ON TURF. The disease is especially severe on slow-growing turfgrass. This is often the case on nitrogen and/or phosphorous deficient lawns. Bluegrasses (Poa sp.), fescues (Festuca sp.), ryegrasses (Lolium sp.), and bentgrasses (Agrostis sp.) can be affected. Fine-leaved fescues and some ryegrasses are particularly susceptible. In moist humid moderate weather, the fungus Laetisaria fuciformis, grows visibly on the infected grass blades and leaf sheaths. The fungus produces thread-like strands or web-like masses of coral-pink to reddish hyphae (fungal strands) on the grass blades. Even though brown spots may develop in the lawn, the disease does not kill the crown (growth point of the plant) and the turfgrass will eventually recover.

Management Strategies.

Maintain adequate soil fertility. Low levels of nitrogen can increase disease severity. Phosphorous deficient soils have been found to significantly increase the severity of red thread; by correcting this dramatic improved turf health can be achieved. The actual fertilization rates will depend upon the types of grass(es) grown, soil texture, and the specific rates recommended in your area. Test your soil if there are questions.

Avoid overwatering and wet conditions. Do not water the lawn in the late afternoon or evening. Provide good soil drainage. Prune trees and shrubs to increase sun light to promote faster drying of the turfgrass and increase growth.

Use resistant varieties of Kentucky bluegrass, perennial ryegrass and fine fescue. For the latest information on resistant varieties check the National Turfgrass Evaluation Program web site at- http://www.ntep.org/

Where disease is severe, fungicide applications may be considered. Red thread is not often a severe problem on lawns. If it does become troublesome, an application of a registered fungicide to manage this disease may be considered. Products are often more available to the commercial applicator than the homeowner. Products that are labeled for residential lawns include Heritage, ProStar, Endorse, Bayleton, Banner, Insignia, and Disarm. Other materials are available for non-residential turfgrass areas, check the label.

6. INDUSTRY INSIGHTS.

A. NEW INSECTICIDE LABELED. DuPont recently announced the registration of Acelepryn, a new insecticide labeled for use on turfgrass and ornamentals. The generic name for the insecticide is chlorantraniliprole. Other DuPont products that are based on chlorantraniliprole include Altacor and Coregon, which carry fruit and vegetable labels.

Chlorantraniliprole belongs to a new class of insecticides called anthranilic diamides. These insecticides cause ryanidine receptors in the insect's muscles to leak calcium ions, short-circuiting the ability for the muscles to contract. This disruption of normal muscle contraction quickly leads to insect paralysis and death.

The mode of action is unique compared to the neurotoxic modes of action for neonicotinoids, pyrethroids, carbamates, and organophosphates. It also gives Acelepryn an extremely low mammalian toxicity. In fact, the labels states: "NO SIGNAL WORD is required for this product." This means the overall toxicity of Acelepryn places the insecticide in the EPA's Category IV, which is the lowest toxicity rating.

Dave Shetlar was one of the earliest researchers to test chlorantraniliprole against turfgrass insect pests. After testing the compound for over four years, Dave has concluded that there is virtually no common turfgrass pest that the insecticide will not kill. This includes turfgrass caterpillars, which most neonicotinoids will not control. Indeed, Dave noted that in trials last season, they achieved 90 days of turfgrass caterpillar control with a single application of chlorantraniliprole.

Dave reported that applications of chlorantraniliprole that were made in April provided season-long control of white grubs, and May applications eliminated bluegrass billbugs. When applied in July, chinch bugs were wiped-out. However, Dave noted that applications made in mid-to-late August failed to suppress white grubs. This indicates that Acelepryn should be used as a preventative rather than a curative insecticide.

Thus far, most of the efficacy trials for chlorantraniliprole have focused on turfgrass pests, although the label does include a short list of ornamental insect pests. Acelepryn has good systemic activity and foliar caterpillars, lace bugs, and birch leafminer are listed on the label along with instructions for soil injections and drenches. However, Dave indicated Acelepryn has low water solubility which slows its movement into trees. This means it takes longer to reach pest targets and Dave noted that a lead-time of 60 days may be required.

More information link: http://www2.dupont.com/Professional_Products/en_US/assets/downloads/pdfs/H65649.pdf [Dupont Acelepryn Label]

B. ASHALERT.OSU.EDU. Looking for information on the EMERALD ASH BORER (EAB)? The Ohio State University's website [ http://ashalert.osu.edu ] has recently been updated and has a new look. Be sure to save it as one of your favorites and check back often, as things change rapidly in the world of the EAB. FactSheets, Bulletins, video clips, and a photo gallery are all at your fingertips on this new site.

7. COMING ATTRACTIONS.

A. NORTHWEST OHIO GREEN INDUSTRY SUMMER SESSION. Remember to save the date for the 11th annual Northwest Ohio Green Industry Summer Session on August 6, 2008. The event will be held once again at Owens Community College. We are especially pleased to have Bill Hendricks, from Klyn Nurseries, Inc., with us once again to speak on Tree Selections for Shade and Partial Shade, and Top Woody Plant Selections. Additionally, this year's great line up of guest speakers includes:

--Dr. Shetlar; Scales and Their Control Options, Pesticide Modes of Action
--Joe Boggs; "Boring" Insects and Their Control Options, Diagnostic Basics
--Dr. Curtis Young, Clues to Insect ID, Bagworms and Their Control Options
--Dr. Laura Deeter; Top Perennial Performers, Perennial Pests and Problems
--Joanne Kick-Raack; Pesticide Updates
--Maumee Valley Growers Discussion Panel

Once again we will have a three hour manager session with Walter Williams working with you as you look at Growing Your Business by Managing Your Business. This session will be both informative and very interactive as you look at your business and where you want to grow.

Continuing education credits will be given for ONLA certified technicians, ISA recertification, OLA, and Master Gardener recertification.

Contact Becky McCann at 419-354-6916, or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it for more information

8. BYGLOSOPHY. "I used to visit and revisit it a dozen times a day, and stand in deep contemplation over my vegetable progeny with a love that nobody could share or conceive of who had never taken part in the process of creation. It was one of the most bewitching sights in the world to observe a hill of beans thrusting aside the soil, or a rose of early peas just peeping forth sufficiently to trace a line of delicate green." - Nathaniel Hawthorne

Where trade names are used, no discrimination is intended and no endorsement by Ohio State University Extension is implied. Although every attempt is made to produce information that is complete, timely, and accurate, the pesticide user bears responsibility of consulting the pesticide label and adhering to those directions.

OSU Extension embraces human diversity and is committed to ensuring that all educational programs conducted by Ohio State University Extension are available to clientele on a nondiscriminatory basis without regard to race, color, age, gender identity, or expression, disability, religion, sexual orientation, national origin or veteran's status. Keith L. Smith, Associate Vice President for Ag. Adm. and Director, OSU Extension, TDD No. 800-589-8292 (Ohio only) or 614-292-1868.