Box Tree Moth infesting Delaware’s Boxwood species

DELAWARE – Confirmed sightings of the box tree moth have been discovered in Kent County, which is a federally regulated pest. This tree moth primarily feeds on the Boxwood species, a popular shrub in the United States. If left unchecked, the species can take over these trees and cause significant damage.

Jessica Munski is a Plant Industry Program Administrator at Delaware’s Department of Agriculture. She tells us how the box tree moth is native to Northern China and Korea but has made it’s way here. Boxwood trees can be found all over, especially at historical or  government buildings, such as the Governor’s mansion,

She says because they move at such a rapid pace, they want the public to keep an eye out for them. “Delaware is the fifth State in the nation to see box tree moths so it is relatively new, and we weren’t expecting it here in Delaware… The concern really is that it is such an aggressive defoliator of those boxwoods and, like within 10 days aggressive, so quick treatment and control is essential.”

Munski says they are not poisonous to humans or animals so don’t be afraid when you see one. She says to observe your plants regularly and they are asking the public if they spot any signs of webbing or moths, to contact their county master gardener to get pesticide treatment control options.