Maple Petiole Borer
Maple Petiole Borer
The maple petiole borer is one of those insects that creates a good deal of concern but is actually not serious.
The adults lay eggs on maple petioles in May. The larvae tunnel into the petiole and eat all the tissues in the petiole. The petiole is weakened and the leaf drops off leaving the larvae in the part of the petiole still attached to the tree. Later the larvae fall to the ground and pupates.
The main symptom is the fallen leaves. These usually have a short part of the petiole still attached although it is usually black and shriveled.
Controls are usually not needed.
