ANNAPOLIS, MD (September 24, 2026) ~ Annapolis, MD - The Maryland Department of Agriculture (MDA) and the U.S. Department of Agriculture Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service have announced the expansion of the box tree moth quarantine into Harford County, effective today, September 24.

This decision comes after the discovery of the box tree moth (Cydalima perspectalis) in nine other Maryland counties. In March 2026, a quarantine order was put into place for Allegany, Frederick, Garrett and Washington counties due to their proximity to nearby states with established box tree moth populations. In August 2026, the quarantine was expanded into Caroline, Cecil, Kent and Queen Anne's counties. At that time, the box tree moth had not yet been observed in Kent County, but its presence has now been confirmed.

The expansion of the quarantine means that there will be restrictions on the movement of regulated articles within the confined area. Businesses that grow and ship boxwoods are required to have a certificate of inspection and complete a compliance agreement with MDA in order to move regulated items into or from the quarantine zone. Nursery owners and residents within the quarantine zone are also encouraged to monitor their boxwoods and implement safeguards to limit pest risk.

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The box tree moth is a federally regulated insect that is native to East Asia. It was first identified in the United States in 2021 after being confirmed in New York and has since spread rapidly to Delaware, Massachusetts, Michigan, New Jersey, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Virginia and West Virginia. This invasive species poses a major threat to the region's nursery industries as it feeds primarily on boxwoods - an important ornamental shrub used in landscaping.

Early infestations are often hard to detect as the molting caterpillars generally feed on the underside of leaves. Additionally, multiple generations can live off one shrub as the box tree moth has a short development time. This intensive feeding limits shrub recovery and can ultimately lead to the death of the plant. Adult box tree moths have white wings with a brown border and are generally active at night, making them difficult to detect.

To prevent significant damage and loss, as well as the spread of the box tree moth, early detection is crucial. The MDA is urging residents to monitor their boxwoods for signs of defoliation, stripped back leaves, or caterpillar webs. If suspected, individuals are encouraged to report it through an online form or allow state and/or federal agricultural officials to inspect their plants and place detection traps.

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In case of an infestation, it is recommended to prune out localized areas and remove infected shrubs completely. Any infested material should be double bagged and placed in the trash to prevent the moths from escaping.

For more information on how to treat this pest, residents can visit the University of Maryland Home and Garden Information Center or MDA's website. Any further questions can be directed to [email address]. The MDA is working diligently with federal agencies to contain and eradicate this invasive species in order to protect Maryland's agriculture industry.

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