Euonymus caterpillars web branches as they feed on the leaves of Euonymus species. / Photo Credit: Wisconsin DNR
By Michael Hillstrom, DNR Forest Health Specialist
Michael.Hillstrom@wisconsin.gov
Euonymus caterpillars (Yponomeuta cagnagella) made a dramatic appearance in June, webbing and defoliating Euonymus shrubs in several counties.
Multiple species of Euonymus may be attacked, including spindle tree, winged (e.g., burning bush), eastern wahoo, winter creeper and others. Winged euonymus is listed as Restricted in Wisconsin’s invasive species rule NR40.
Continue reading “Non-Native Caterpillars Attacking Non-Native Euonymus”
When your newly planted trees are getting comfortable in their new homes, you’ve pulled the splinters from your hands and you find yourself at a desk asking yourself, “What now?”, we have an answer for you.
With recent storms passing through Wisconsin, communities may still be working on clean-up. Depending on the intensity of the storms and the condition of the trees, damage from high winds, heavy rainfall, hail and lightning can be quite severe. Cracked or broken branches, trunk damage and root failure are some of the main concerns, but also the risk and liability of damage to people and property. 
Have you ever walked through a patch of poison ivy or brushed up against wild parsnip? If so, you probably learned an uncomfortable lesson about encountering harmful plants. Luckily, there is a less painful way to learn about dangerous vegetation hidden among Wisconsin’s natural beauty. Now is the time to brush up on hazards you may encounter while working or recreating outdoors.