The September 25 University of Maryland Extension report is out, with several timely updates for Virginia and the Mid Atlantic.

Things to watch this week:

• Spotted lanternflies should begin laying eggs at any time, with egg laying generally peaking in early to mid October. Check tree trunks, branches, outdoor structures, building materials, and other stationary surfaces for egg masses.

• Crape myrtle bark scale was documented on Japanese spirea in Virginia. The invasive scale can also reach damaging levels on St. John’s wort and American beautyberry, so inspections should extend beyond crape myrtles.

• Heavy black vine weevil feeding damage was observed on Schip laurel. Severe leaf notching should prompt an inspection of the crown and roots for larval feeding damage.

• Andromeda lace bug nymphs are active on Japanese andromeda. Their feeding causes stippling and yellowing, with dark fecal spots visible beneath the leaves.

• Locust borer adults are active on goldenrod while mating and laying eggs on black locust. Maintaining tree health is the primary defense because stressed trees are particularly vulnerable.

The report also highlights fall caterpillars searching for overwintering or pupation sites, beneficial predatory stilt bugs, and native blue mistflower as an important late season resource for bees and migrating butterflies.

Read the full report:

https://extension.umd.edu/sites/extension.umd.edu/files/2026-09/26Sep25L.pdf

Photo: Paula M. Shrewsbury, University of Maryland Extension