Lilac Borer Forecast

Lilac borer is a clear-wing moth that can damage lilac, ash, and privet trees and shrubs by burrowing into the heartwood. 

Lilac Borer Current Day Forecast

Lilac Borer Six-Day Forecast

WHAT ARE PHENO FORECASTS?

Pheno Forecast maps predict key life cycle stages in invasive and pest species, to improve management efficacy.  For insect pest species, Pheno Forecasts are based on published growing degree day (GDD) thresholds for key points in species life cycles. These key points typically represent life cycle stages when management actions are most effective. These maps are updated daily and available 6 days in the future.

Help us improve these maps! Our Pheno Forecast map products are still in development, and we seek input on their performance in your area. Give your feedback at the bottom of the page.

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Credits: Whitney Cranshaw, Colorado State University via Bugwood.org
A pair of lilac borers are seen mating on a lilac branch, the insects are striped with clear wings.

SPECIES BACKGROUND

Lilac borer (Podosesia syringae), also known as ash borer, is a clear-wing moth that is native to North America and widespread in the U.S. The larvae tunnel into the trunks and lower branches of lilac, ash, and privet. Trees stressed by drought, injury, or recent transplanting are especially susceptible to borers.

Credits: James Solomon, USDA Forest Service via Bugwood.org
Blackened leaves show damage by lilac borer to the terminal bud of a lilac plant.

ADULT FORECAST

We forecast adult emergence based on growing degree days. Adult lilac borers overwinter in the heartwood of trees, then emerge in early summer. Trunk sprays should take place preceding or coinciding with adult emergence and subsequent egg hatch to kill larvae before they enter trunks. For specific information on preferred treatment options in your region, we recommend contacting your local extension agent.   For more information, visit UMass Amherst Center for Agriculture, Food, and the Environment or Colorado State University Extension

EXPLORE THIS FORECAST

Learn more about this forecast using our visualization tool!

 EXPLORE FORECAST

Phenophase

GDD threshold

Base temp

Start date

GDD method

Model origin

Source

Adult emergence

500-1300oF

50oF

Jan 1

Double sine

KY

Herms (2004)

More information on map development and re-use policy.

TRACK THIS SPECIES WITH NATURE'S NOTEBOOK

 

You can help verify this forecast by checking trees for this species and reporting your findings in Nature’s Notebook via the Pest Patrol campaign. Your observations will help scientists better understand when this species is active and susceptible to treatment.

 

Learn more about Pest Patrol

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