Box Tree Moth Alert!

Box Tree Moth Resources

1.     From Michigan State University Extension – June 4, 2025

Channel 4 WDIV recently ran a segment on box tree moth, and since then, we’ve seen a big uptick in questions—especially at outreach booths. The segment brought attention to the issue, but may have left viewers with more questions than answers.

One area of confusion is how to properly dispose of infested boxwood. 

We’ve attached a helpful document from MDARD that includes ID photos and guidance for disposal. Here's the key takeaway:

·       Remove infested branches—or, if the infestation is severe, cut the boxwood back to the base.

·       Do not put boxwood debris in your curbside pickup bags or compost.

·       Double-bag all boxwood debris in plastic and place it with your household trash.

·       Do not transport infested boxwood debris. Moving boxwood within the quarantine area (which includes Wayne Co and neighboring counties) is illegal unless it is "enclosed by a covering adequate to prevent the spread of box tree moth (such as canvas, plastic, or closely woven cloth), or is transported in an enclosed trailer body or vehicle."

For broader info, the MSU Extension Box Tree Moth page has excellent resources.

2.     Box Tree Moth Presentation

Dr. David Lowenstein, an entomologist for Extension in Macomb County, is doing an online presentation "Boxwoods at risk: What can I do to stop the box tree moth?" for the Jackson, Lenawee and Washtenaw Counties CISMA. It's free. June 24, 6:30pm. Anyone can register by clicking on this link:

https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/Vimho8zsQ7ydaHWIj5ND0w#/registration