UC Cooperative Extension | Agricultural Experiment Station
UC ANR Fire Network shares resources on reducing impacts of wildfire, smoke
Fire advisors offer guidance on minimizing damage, preparing for evacuation, protecting against smoke With exceptionally dry conditions persisting in many parts of California, residents should double their efforts to prepare homes, families,...
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Baby blue gum eucalyptus is grown for the production of fresh cut foliage for flower arrangements or it is dried, dyed and sold in preserved floriculture markets. It has been grown commercially in California from San Diego County to Sonoma County for 40 years. There is no other significant commercial production of baby blue gum elsewhere in the United States. Ornamental eucalyptus has been virtually pest-free, requiring only occasional pesticide treatments. However, in August 2003, tortoise beetles (Chrysophtharta m-fusca Boheman) were observed on ornamental eucalyptus in Orange County, Calif. Within a few years, this leaf-feeding beetle spread throughout Southern California in the major growing area of ornamental eucalyptus, and has caused very heavy feeding damage to terminal growth. In 2006, beetle populations in growing regions reached extremely high levels, resulting in nearly complete crop loss.
Read about: UCCE Helps Growers of Ornamental Eucalyptus Ravaged by an Invasive Pest | View Other Stories