Question From: Auburn, Washington, United States
Q: I have a had a Viburnum in a planter for about 10 years. In the past 2 years I have seen a 'lace like' forming on the branches. It doesn't seem to affect the flowering, but doesn't look good as we come out of the winter. I have noticed the same 'lace' like formations on azaleas. Any ideas???
A: The damage may be from the Viburnum beetle. For information on this "new pest" go to http://www.hort.cornell.edu/vlb/manage.html . Timing is key as damage takes place in a matter of days. Spraying with dormant oil before the shrub leafs out is one method of control. Using a contact insecticide as soon as the larvae hatch is another. An insecticide containing Spinosad would be my recommendation. Best And Happy Yardening, Nancy
