​Laurel wilt is caused by a fungus that is spread by the wood-boring ambrosia beetle, both are considered exotic, invasive species. Mainly affecting redbay laurel, sassafras, spicebush and avocado trees, it is beginning to make further encroachment into the Bluegrass State.

​As some of you may have noticed, we are experiencing an issue with browning oak trees in the northern region of the state. The culprit has been identified as the oak lace bug. This native insect has been feasting away at our Chinkapin Oaks causing them to bronze or in the worst cases, bleach. If anyone has seen this type of damage in other areas/counties, please let Alexandria Blevins, Forest Health Specialist , Kentucky Division of Forestry (KDF) know by calling (502) 382-1720. Your help is greatly appreciated and many thanks in advance! Please see the pest alert attached here.

KDF's two nurseries grow over 40 species of native trees. You can now purchase seedlings, which will be delivered between January-April of next year. While we have plenty of seedlings right now, be sure to place your order early in the season to take advantage of the best availability of species. Visit our website to download an order form: https://eec.ky.gov/.../state-nuseries.../Pages/default.aspx. PDF Order form here.