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Unfortunately, this eighties flashback is not good news for the trees and it is definitely not neon or hairspray. Rhode Island has been taken by surprise with a Gypsy Moth Caterpillar invasion similar to the one in the early eighties. DEM officials say that the extent of this invasion is indeed a surprise. Oaks and hardwoods found in rural regions are taking the brunt of this infestation.
This outbreak comes just as the trees were recovering from the Winter Moth damage. The Winter Moth is responsible for wide spread defoliation of hardwoods across that state. Just as this moth was on the way out, the Gypsy Moth began appearing…giving these trees a double dose of damage. According to DEM officials, the Gypsy Moth population started exploding and is hitting the trees with another ravenous round of leaf-eating.
It is too late for preventative measures as most of the damage has already been done. Paul Ricard, DEM forest health program coordination, advises us that healthy trees are able to withstand and survive years of defoliation. Therefore, do not cut down the trees that look like they have little or no leaves. It is important to note that drought can in fact kill defoliated trees so consider watering your damaged trees if they go more than a week without rain.
Click here for the complete story on EcoRI.
Consulting with an arborist to assess the health and damage of trees is always a wise idea.
