Peachtree Borer
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Peachtree Borer  Adult peachtree borers are blue-black, 1/1/4in(3cm.) moths with a yellow or orange band across the body and narrow, translucent wings. They resemble wasps and unlike most moths they are active during the day. The first adults emerge in July and emergence continues into early fall. In late summer females begin laying eggs on tree trunks or in cracks in the soil within a few inches of trunks. Eggs hatch in ten days and new larvae, white caterpillars with dark brown heads, burrow into tree trunks to feed and overwinter until next year in spring. Peachtree borer caterpillars spin brown silken cocoons at the surface of their burrow or in the soil. Life Cycle- The entire life cycle of the peach tree borer requires one year to complete. The immature (larva) stage produces tree damage. Upon hatching from the eggs, young larvae immediately tunnel into the sapwood of the tree, usually through cracks and wounds in the bark. Larvae continue to feed and develop until the onset of cold weather. Most activity occurs a few inches below ground on the trunk and larger roots. The Insects spend the winter as partially grown larvae below ground under the bark.  Susceptible Plants- Primarily peaches, also apricots, cherry, nectarine, and plum trees. Symptoms- Larvae bore beneath the bark of the trees at the base in as well as into the main root near the surface, often girdling the trees. Peachtree borer burrow entrance holes exude gum mixed with sawdust like material. Young or weak trees maybe seriously damaged or killed, older trees are less effected. Prevention and Control- Adult peachtree borers are attracted to weak trees so keep plants vigorous and avoid damaging them. Attract native parasitic wasps and predators. Beginning in late summer and into fall, inspect tree trunks from 1ft((30cm) or so above ground level to 2in(5cm) below ground level, digging away soil to expose the trunk below ground level. Kill peachtree borers in exposed burrows by inserting a fine flexible wire. In fall and spring cultivate soil around the base of the trunk to expose and destroy larvae and pupae. Biological Control- Predator Nematodes: Steinernematid / Heterorhabditis Mix, Ladybug Beetles: Hippodamia convergens, Green Lacewing Eggs Insecticidal Control- Bonide Bt Thuricide.
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