Re: Cult: Borers

> Since we don't have borers here in the west, I haven't paid as much
> attention to the problem as discussed on the list as perhaps I should
> have. I don't remember having seen this question asked though. My
> question is this, do I need to worry about receiving any of the critters
> on iris purchased from areas of the country that have borers? And/or
> what would a proper cleansing process.

John,
     This is probably the best question so far this year.  I am answering
this after seeing some of the other replies.  It appears that the Iris
Borer has been accidentally (I hope) introduced into the Vancouver area of
British Columbia.  This puts the plantings in Washington and Oregon at risk
for eventual infestation by this dreaded pest.  
     If you are in an arid or semi-arid climate, most likely, the Iris
Borer would not be able to survive if it was introduced there.  However, I
would not want to take the chance.  I have heard of the Iris Borer having
been introduced into Arizona, but frying in the heat.
     I would like to give a word of advice for those sending Irises to the
West as well as for those receiving them.
     When sending Irises to anyone, please send only healthy material like
what you would want to receive.  Check the plant for any present pests. 
However, I do know that something could get sent accidentally.
     For those in Borer-Free areas, closely inspect any and all Irises you
get from areas that have the Iris Borer.  Look for leaves that look like
they have had little "notches" removed, and for holes with frass near the
base of the fan.  Also, plants infested with the Iris Borer often get Soft
Rot, which gives off a distinctive, unpleasant smell.  
     Also remember that the Blackberry Lily is susceptible to the Iris
Borer, and the same precautions for Iris apply to it.
Good Luck and hopefully no Iris Borers.

Mark A. Cook
billc@atlantic.net
Dunnellon, FL.
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