Move over lanternflies, there’s a new invasive species in town. The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) reports that the box tree moth has been discovered in Loudoun County.
VDACS warns the moths can significantly damage and potentially kill boxwood plants if left unchecked. The agency says the caterpillars are ravenous feeders. And heavy infestations can completely defoliate plants.
USDA First Detects Box Tree Moths
The box tree moth is native to East Asia. It has become a pest in Europe where boxwood is native. In 2021, the U.S. Department of Agriculture detected the moths in New York.
As of this month, box tree moths have been confirmed in Delaware, Massachusetts, Michigan, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia. Prior to recent detections (in Loudoun and Clarke counties), the moth had not been seen in Virginia.
Early Detection Is Vital
VDACS says early detection and rapid response are vital for the management of any newly introduced invasive pest. It has surveyed the area surrounding the detections to determine the extent of infestation. And the agency is planning to conduct additional surveys.
The Virginia Agriculture Department is offering to provide treatment for boxwood plants if the moths are confirmed to be present. Property owners should report any suspected damage to boxwood plants on their property by using VDACS’ Invasive Species Reporting Tool.
For more information on the box tree moth, you can visit the USDA website or contact the VDACS Office of Plant Industry Services at 804-786-3515. This fact sheet can also help identify the life stages of the moth and the potential damage it does to plants.
Feature image courtesy courtesy Hannah Nadel/USDA
