PestHigh Severity

Elm Leaf Beetle

Pyrrhalta luteola (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae)

A destructive beetle pest affecting all elm species and Japanese zelkova. Adults chew circular holes in leaves while larvae skeletonize foliage from underneath. Multiple generations per year can cause significant defoliation and tree mortality.

Peak Season: Adults active spring through fall, larvae feeding throughout growing season
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Elm Leaf Beetle adults and larvae feeding damage on elm leaves

Identification & Symptoms

What to Look For

Circular holes chewed in expanding leaves by adults
Skeletonized leaves with only upper surfaces and veins remaining
Massive adult activity around hibernation sites in spring
Orange-yellow egg masses on undersides of leaves
Complete defoliation in severe infestations
Adults becoming household nuisances in fall and spring

Potential Damage

Adults chew circular feeding holes in expanding leaves
Larvae skeletonize leaves from underside
Repeated annual attacks can kill major branches or entire trees
First generation typically most damaging
Stress predisposes trees to secondary problems
Nuisance pest in homes during hibernation periods

Lifecycle

Adults hibernate in protected areas, emerging at bud break to feed and lay eggs. Females deposit up to 800 eggs per generation in groups of 25 on leaf undersides beginning late May. Larvae hatch in one week, feed for 2-4 weeks, then pupate in bark crevices or on ground for about 10 days. 2-4 generations per year depending on region.

Professional Treatment Approach

1

Systemic insecticide injection before spring emergence

2

Foliar treatments during early larval stages

3

Monitor for adult emergence at bud break

4

Seal potential hibernation sites around buildings

5

Maintain tree health to improve resistance

Recommended Mauget Products

Imicide

Professional-grade treatment specifically effective against elm leaf beetle.

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Dinocide

Professional-grade treatment specifically effective against elm leaf beetle.

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