Developing a control program for the invasive box tree moth

Box tree moth is a destructive invasive pest that first appeared in the U.S. in 2021 and has quickly begun spreading throughout the country. Boxwoods themselves are non native in North America, but make up a key part of the nursery business and have a significant cultural impact in the East. While many control options exist, timing continues to be a large hurdle due to variations in the number of generations per year throughout its expanded range. This study will aim to determine generations per year at sites where BTM has been reported and compare phenology reports with those already conducted in Canada and Europe. This knowledge will enable applicators to better control the moth and reduce overall environmental impact by reducing the number of applications per year. It also aims to provide industry professionals with better guidelines for what to expect as this pest continues to expand in the United States.