What primary consequence forces a host plant after severe, early spring defoliation?
Answer
The plant must use significant stored energy reserves to produce a second set of leaves
When Winter Moth larvae cause severe defoliation early in the spring, before the tree has fully invested energy into developing its robust summer canopy, the plant is compelled to reactivate energy reserves. This forced expenditure is used to initiate the growth of a secondary flush of leaves. This process diverts vital stored energy away from root maintenance or future reproductive efforts. If this severe, early feeding occurs repeatedly over several seasons, especially when the tree is already compromised by stress or drought, the cumulative energy deficit can lead to significant decline or eventual mortality.
Related Questions
Which stage of the Winter Moth inflicts the major feeding damage?What is the characteristic appearance of a Winter Moth infested canopy?During which period do male and female Winter Moths fly to mate?When must systemic treatments be absorbed for effectiveness against larvae?Why does the extensive host range of *Operophtera brumata* complicate management?What is the mobility characteristic of the adult female Winter Moth?What primary consequence forces a host plant after severe, early spring defoliation?Where do Winter Moths spend the summer months after larval development?What larval size is generally targeted for traditional contact control tactics?What management approach targets the precursor to the larval diet using physical barriers?