A best guess is that the extreme rains in 1998 decimated mite populations through wash off and fungal disease. Perhaps the populations were reduced to such a degree that natural controls, which are not noticeably effective in outbreak situations, now have greater influence in maintaining mites at low density, thus retarding recovery. Grower attention to preservation of beneficial species can contribute to this natural control. The cool temperatures this summer are also helping to keep mites down. Fewer generations means slower mite population increase and more time for mites to get eaten by a predator or succumbing to a fungal disease before reproducing.
Dogwood borers are now at peak laying activity.
The threat of RAB infestation is greatest on border row trees within 100 meters of surrounding forest. Dogwood borers prefer burr knots. Insecticide application targeted against apple maggot will control the adult females before they can lay eggs. Trees with trunk diameter of less than 4 inches are more susceptible to damage. If there is a history of borer damage, trunk application of Lorsban 50WP is the most effective control option.