Plant Health Care
Northville Faces Elm Leaf Beetle Invasion
| May 30, 2025
Elm leaf beetle adult and damage. | William M. Ciesla, Forest Health Mgt Intl, Bugwood.org
Elms in the picturesque town of Northville are under threat from a tiny but formidable foe: the elm leaf beetle. This invasive pest has been causing significant damage to the town's beloved elms, raising alarm among residents because of the browning and falling leaves caused by the insect feeding.
The Culprit
Elm leaf beetles, scientifically known as Xanthogaleruca luteola, are small insects measuring about 1/4 inch in length. The adult insect has a distinctive yellow body with black stripes that makes them easily identifiable. The larvae are more slug-like and start off dark-colored, eventually maturing to a yellow color with black dots. These beetles have a particular fondness for elm trees, feeding voraciously on their leaves throughout their life cycle.
The Damage
The destruction caused by elm leaf beetles is two-fold. Adult beetles chew irregular holes in the leaves, while their larvae skeletonize the foliage, leaving behind a lace-like appearance. This extensive feeding can lead to premature leaf drop, weakening the trees and making them more susceptible to other insects and diseases.
Impact on Northville
Northville's elm population, a cornerstone of the town's natural beauty, is at risk. The ongoing infestation not only threatens the aesthetic appeal of the community but also poses potential economic consequences. Weakened trees require more maintenance and may need to be removed if severely damaged, placing a financial burden on both homeowners and the municipality.
Control Measures
An integrated pest management approach can help minimize the effects of the elm leaf beetle problem. This includes:
• Regular monitoring of elm trees for signs of infestation.
• Targeted insecticide treatments when necessary.
• Exploring resistant elm varieties for future plantings.
Homeowners should be on the lookout for elm leaf beetle activity by looking for any browning of leaves on their elm trees. Call Owen Tree & Lawn Care if you need a professional inspection of your trees.