sharing a viburnum loss

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plantaholic2 N Middlesex County, MA(Zone 5a) May 23, 2007

Shocked yesterday to realize my viburnum wasn't just late, it was a goner (95% anyhow). I've had this for over 10 years. It was one of my first plant acquisitions. I feel like I've lost an old friend.

I did heavily prune it each year because it was really too big for its spot. I guess that was too stressful. Lesson learned. At the time of planting, it was felt it would be a good plant to cover the big blank garage wall. But then I got addicted to clematis and needed all the wall space I could find!

Should I treat the soil for eggs or something before replanting ? I imagine this is some sort of borer. what is the life cycle? should I worry about my other viburnums around (about 4 or 5 others).



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plantaholic2 N Middlesex County, MA(Zone 5a) May 23, 2007

and here's the trunk damage. When I was taking this picture, I couldn't really see the problem so well. I just saw darkness. It wasn't until I looked at the pic on my computer, that the word BORER popped in my head.

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snapple45 Holland, OH(Zone 5b) May 24, 2007

Take a look at this link. Look familiar?


http://bugs.osu.edu/~bugdoc/Shetlar/factsheet/ornamental/Dogwoodborer.PDF

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plantaholic2 N Middlesex County, MA(Zone 5a) May 24, 2007

ugh gross. yes, that does look like it. The article implies the host can be saved, but I think mine is toast.

I was sad for awhile, but now I am busy thinking of what else I might put in that spot. :-)

Now I am worried for my dogwoods, rhodies and other viburnum. There must be another generation lurking. I will have to go check everybody. Dang.

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snapple45 Holland, OH(Zone 5b) May 24, 2007

My "Cherokee Chief" dogwood did survive a borer attack about 15 yrs. ago when the tree was very young. I sprayed the trunk preventatively for roughly 4 or 5 years after the initial attack. There has been no repeat problem. Plant shopping is always the upside to a loss. Not a great one but at least a little something to look forward to.

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plantaholic2 N Middlesex County, MA(Zone 5a) May 24, 2007

How ironic that you mention Cherokee Chief. I have that tree right around the corner from the Viburnum.

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