Rust Mites

Hemlock Rust Mites are continuing to cause problems, especially in fields that were treated last fall and have not had a treatment for mites this spring. The weather conditions have been good for rust mite development, so you will want to get out and do some scouting even in fields you have treated for twig aphids this spring.

RoundUp Timing

Christmas tree and ornamental conifer growers that are using the chemical mowing practice with RoundUp should begin wrapping up their applications. When the new growth gets out to around 2" then you should stop applying the RoundUp directly to the foliage or cut your rate to the 4 oz. per acre rate instead of the 8 oz. per acre rate. For help with calibrating spray equipment, please contact your local Extension Agent.