Is Verticillium nonalfalfae used in Colorado to control Tree of Heaven? - Ask Extension
Hello,
I recently read a USDA publication on the use of a fungi, Verticillium nonalfalfae, to control Tree of Heaven in some eastern states. Is thi...
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Is Verticillium nonalfalfae used in Colorado to control Tree of Heaven? #869866
Asked May 24, 2024, 1:13 AM EDT
Hello,
I recently read a USDA publication on the use of a fungi, Verticillium nonalfalfae, to control Tree of Heaven in some eastern states. Is this method of control in use in Colorado and if so, is it available to homeowners?
Thanks,
Ryan Tanner
Denver County Colorado
Expert Response
Hi Ryan,
I am not aware of this biological control agent being used in Colorado, or its commercial use in any states. I recommend contacting the CO Dept of Agriculture to see if it's been tested locally.
Given how recent the publications on this topic are, it will be a couple more years at least before this biological control agent is commercially available. That is assuming that it passes host specificity testing and other regulatory measures imposed by the USDA and EPA.
