Penn State Extension released its latest Christmas Tree Scouting Report on April 15, detailing the rapid changes in weather and pest activity affecting growers across Pennsylvania.
The report highlights that recent high temperatures have accelerated crop development and pest emergence. This is important for growers because it shortens the window for effective management of pests and diseases, making regular field scouting critical to protect crops.
According to the update, growing degree day accumulation surged by as much as 20 units in a single day in some areas. Budbreak and shoot elongation have advanced quickly, especially among white spruce and Norway spruce trees. Soil temperatures now hold steady in the mid to upper 50s Fahrenheit, which has led to increased root activity and insect movement. Pest pressures from weevils, mites, aphids, scales, needlecast disease, and needle midge are all on the rise. The report urges timely applications of recommended pesticides before key developmental stages pass.
The extension also provides detailed guidance on managing specific pests such as white pine weevil and pales weevil with labeled pyrethroids like bifenthrin or permethrin. For spruce spider mite infestations, early-season miticide applications are advised before populations build up further. Growers are encouraged to scout regularly by tapping branches over white paper to confirm mite presence.
Educational resources from Penn State Extension support these recommendations. According to the official website, Penn State Extension delivers science-based education focused on agriculture and responsible resource management throughout every county in Pennsylvania using local offices and digital tools. The organization collaborates with government agencies and industry partners to provide workshops, online courses, consultations on farming practices including pest control strategies.
Penn State Extension’s programming centers around agriculture education as well as nutrition and environmental stewardship according to its official website.
The next scouting report will be available on April 23. Observations can be submitted until noon on April 21 for inclusion in that update.
