May 13, 1992
Gypsy Moth Reminder
May and June are the months when the gypsy moth caterpillars would eat the foliage from your trees, IF they are present. Now is the time to watch trees for gypsy moth presence.
According to the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship, we still have knowledge of only two infestations, one in Long Grove and the other in Clear Lake. Other infestations potentially exist in central Iowa as a result of last years introduction of egg masses on infested blue spruce trees, but those situations require further inspection and analysis.
Pine Needle Scale Egg Hatch Should Happen Soon
According to the phenological indicator system we use to predict when important events in the life cycle of insect pests will happen, the pine needle scale eggs should start to hatch this week or next. This common scale insect, found on pine and spruce trees, primarily spends the winter in the egg stage. The eggs hatch in mid-May and the tiny first instar nymphs, called crawlers, move about before settling to feed and develop in the same spot for the rest of their lives.
Rugosa Roses
Garden roses are a favorite plant of many gardeners, but for others they require more care than they are willing to give. If you are one of those who believe garden roses are too difficult, the Rosa rugosa may be the rose for you. Rugosa roses provide recurrent bloom, fruit, and foliage color. In addition, they are disease resistant, cold hardy (growing in zones 2 to 7), and survive on poor, dry soils. Rugosa roses grow 2 to 6 feet tall and are often used as hedges or as background plantings in perennial gardens. They also look attractive in massed plantings.