Michigan State University Extension
Ornamental Plants plus Version 3.0 - 00001763
11/12/99
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.
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This file was generated from data base ZZ on 01/19/00.
Data base ZZ was last revised on 11/12/99.
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