Elongate Hemlock Scale

Elongate

HEMLOCK SCALE

Minnesota Dept. of Agriculture

E

Photo courtesy of MDA.

Elongate Hemlock Scale. longate hemlock scale (Fiorinia externa) is an invasive pest introduced into the United States from Asia. Elongate hemlock scale is reported to develop and reproduce on 43 species of native and exotic conifers. Primary hosts include hemlocks (Tsuga sp.), firs (Abies sp.), and spruce (Picea sp.), of which several species are native to the United States. Spruce and fir are reported to be more susceptible than hemlock, but the elongate hemlock scale has not become

established in areas where these trees predominate. To date, it has not been found in Minnesota forests or nurseries. However, infested Fraser fir trees and wreaths have been intercepted the past several years.

Scales are very small insects that secrete a waxy coating for defense and feed on the sap from plants. They have piercing/sucking mouthparts they insert into the host plant for feeding. Once they begin feeding, most species of scales remain stationary on the plant.

In northern regions, the elongate hemlock scale completes one generation per year; however, two generations per year occur in southern regions. This insect typically overwinters as an egg or a female carrying eggs. The life cycle consists of immobile adults and mobile immatures called “crawlers.” Crawlers are the only part of the life cycle that are capable of dispersing and establishing new populations, and this usually occurs via birds or the wind. The life stages broadly overlap, so crawlers may be found throughout spring and summer. Males and females look quite different because the males have wings.

The elongate hemlock scale female, which would normally be seen if an infestation is present, is dark brown, longer than wide, and typically found on the underside of the needles. However, these insects are very hard to detect. Signs of elongate hemlock scale include a yellow banding on the top of infested needles which can lead to premature needle drop. The crowns of infested trees may have a thin appearance. If this insect becomes established, it could pose a threat to our native conifer species such as spruces and firs.

In the United States, this pest is established in the Atlantic States and sometimes occurs alongside two other exotic pests — a circular hemlock scale (Nuculaspis tsugae) and the hemlock woolly adelgid (Adelges tsugae).

The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) and the University of Minnesota are currently researching if elongate hemlock scale could become established in Minnesota. Once established, scale insects are difficult to control as they are protected beneath the scale covering most of their life. The use of chemical insecticides is possible; however, application

NEWS & NOTES

In Memoriam: Paul Barton,Jan. 27, 1953 – Sept. 30, 2021

MNLA would like to express its deepest sympathy to the family and friends of Paul Barton of Landshapes, Inc., a long-time member of the association. Paul Howard Barton, of Savage, MN passed away peacefully in his home surrounded by family on September 30 from a courageous battle with cancer. He was 68 years old. Paul was born on January 27, 1953 in La Crosse, WI. He grew up in La Crescent, MN. Paul attended Crucifixion grade school, St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic high school, and played on the high school golf team. He then went on to UW - La Crosse and transferred to the University of Minnesota where he graduated with a degree in Landscape Architecture. In 1977, he founded Landshapes, Inc. and was an active member of MASLA and Minnesota Nursery and Landscape Association for many years. He was also a ski instructor at Hyland Hills for 20 years. Paul married the love of his life, Sue Devins Barton, in 1983 and they had two beautiful daughters, Allison and Caitlan. Paul was incredibly devoted to his family, spent many years coaching his girls in their sports, and loved traveling with his family. A great joy for him was spending time with his two granddaughters. He called them, “His sunshine”. Paul was

Eric R. Day, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Bugwood.org

Elongate Hemlock Scale.

Elongate Hemlock Scale adults. Kristopher Abell, University of Massachusetts, Bugwood.org Elongate Hemlock Scale adults, white male cover and brown female covers.

John .A. Davidson, Univ. Md, College Pk, Bugwood.org

timing is critical because only certain life stages are susceptible. Controlling this pest using chemical insecticides is possible for nursery stock and ornamental plantings but is not practical in naturalized settings such as a forest.

Educating your customers on the proper disposal of holiday greenery and trees after the holidays is also important to prevent the spread of any invasive pests.

Customers can use a curbside tree collection or bring the material to a designated drop-off site. They can check with their waste hauler, city, or county to see what services are offered in their area.

Wreaths and other decorative greens can be disposed of in normal trash cans.

Customers should not toss trees and greenery into their backyard woods or their residential compost pile.

As a last resort, customers could burn the greens. They should check their local ordinances first and follow them.

Posters in multiple sizes and a postcard regarding proper disposal are available to print and provide to retail customers making purchases. For more information, please visit the MDA’s elongate hemlock scale webpage at www. mda.state.mn.us/ehs

always grateful for the loyal, life-long friends he had. He was an avid golfer, and had four hole-in-ones in his lifetime. Paul was privileged to take a trip to Scotland to golf St. Andrews, attend the 1983 Masters Tournament, many PGA tournaments, and two Ryder Cups. Paul also enjoyed attending any Gopher sporting event as well as a sunny day at Canterbury Downs. In the fall, Paul looked forward to hunting season, and in the summer, fishing at the cabin. He had a special love for the seasons in Minnesota. Paul’s faith was very important to him, and his relationship with the Lord carried him through the very toughest times of his life. He was very involved in his parish community, and believed deeply in Catholic education. Annual Meeting Notice

Notice is hereby given that the annual membership meeting of the Minnesota Nursery & Landscape Association will be held at 7:00am on Thursday, January 13, 2022 at the Minneapolis Convention Center. During the annual meeting, the results of the Board of Directors election will be announced. An electronic ballot is sent the first week in December to the primary contact provided to MNLA by each business member.