OHIO — A quarantine zone to stop the spread of the invasive Box Tree Moth was expanded Monday by the Ohio Department of Agriculture.
Starting Monday, March 10, the expanded zone now includes Miami, Montgomery, Greene, Butler, Clermont, Hamilton and Warren counties.
The moths are an invasive insect from East Asia that pose a threat to boxwood plantings and the state's horticulture industry. Boxwood is an ornamental shrub that is a part of Ohio's nursery stock economy. The insects, however, are not a threat to Ohio's native plants.
As caterpillars, the moths are green and yellow with white, yellow and black stripes and spots. The adults are nocturnal and have white, slightly iridescent wings with an irregular, thick brown border.
Officials said the quarantine will allow the ODA to restrict the movement of boxwood shrubs.
ODA said the quarantine is being expanded because of the species being detected in new locations in May 2024 through Oct. 2024. The moths were first detected in June 2023 near the Hamilton-Clermont county border.
Landscapers and residents are asked to check the quarantine lines and not transport the plans outside of the area. Officials are also asking residents to report suspected sightings through the department's reporting tool.
To check for box tree moths, look for evidence of damage on boxwood shrubs, such as chewed, cut or missing leaves, yellow or browning leaves, white webbing and green-black excrement on or around the plant. Ohioans are also encouraged to learn what the insect looks like.
If spotted, take a picture of the infestation and report it to ODA.
ODA will conduct inspections and place traps to monitor populations through plant health inspectors and alongside the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
For questions about the new regulation, contact the Plant Pest Control Section at 614-728-6400.