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How to Manage Pests

Pests in Gardens and Landscapes

Opogona crown borer—Opogona omoscopa

Crown borer adults are dark, brownish moths. Larvae are grayish, about 0.75 inch long, with a dark head.

Damage

Crown borer larvae bore into the crowns of plants. They are most commonly found in bird of paradise plants but also attack strawberry. Foliage turns yellow, wilts, and dies. The basal stem has holes or decay. Borers are probably secondary pests attracted to decaying tissue.

Solutions

Avoid wounding plants. Provide good cultural care. Avoid over watering. Remove debris and dying plants.



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