The nursery industry has a large economic impact in the state of Kentucky.  In 2017, nursery greenhouse sales in Kentucky were approximately $83 million and were expected to total $118 million in 2021. 

In 2022, Kentucky had 477 licensed nurseries in the state and 924 licensed nursery dealers (data from Office of the State Entomologist).

 Many moth pests attack popular trees and ornamentals that are sold in Kentucky’s nurseries.  This trapping survey will safeguard this economically important industry.   

For the  nursery survey we will set 4 different traps in 10 nurseries. Each trap targets a different moth pest of concern: Summer Fruit Tortix, Box Tree Moth, False Codling Moth, and Oak Processionary Moth.  One trap for each insect pest, baited with the appropriate lure, will be in place from May to September/October. 

We will also conduct a visual survey for Imported Fire Ants since they can accidentally be moved in the soil of nursery stock and for Spotted Lanternfly since they feed on a wide variety of plants.