Takahashia japonica in Ticino: how to protect trees

Context

In brief

• Takahashia japonica attacks trees in Ticino
• Situation under control but requires attention
• Phytosanitary measures to contain the spread

Key facts

• What: Presence of Takahashia japonica on trees in Ticino
• When: Situation monitored by the cantonal phytosanitary service
• Where: Mainly in the Sottoceneri area
• Who: Cantonal phytosanitary service of the cantonal agriculture section
• Amount: Not specified

The cantonal authorities of Ticino have reassured that the situation regarding Takahashia japonica, a cottony filament scale insect, is not alarming as declared across the border. However, attention must be paid and adequate measures taken to contain the spread of this organism. Takahashia japonica, also known as the cottony filament scale insect, has been reported mainly in private gardens and some public green spaces, particularly in the Sottoceneri area. The most affected plants in our latitudes are mulberries, liquidambars, elms, and maples. Cristina Marazzi, head of the cantonal phytosanitary service, explained that these are isolated attacks and not a general alarm. However, it is important to act promptly to prevent further damage.

Containment measures

The phytosanitary measures indicated in bulletins n°6/2026 and 16/2026, consultable on the website www.ti.ch/fitosanitario, are fundamental to contain the spread of Takahashia japonica. Among the recommended measures are winter treatment with paraffin oil and the use of ladybugs as valid natural allies. Furthermore, by mid-May, during the egg hatching period, it is possible to intervene mechanically by removing the affected branches through targeted pruning. It is important to maintain a good balance of the plant and proceed with the removal of the egg sacs through brushing using soft tools. The material derived from these operations must be disposed of in urban solid waste and not taken to a composting center.

Impact on vineyards

Cristina Marazzi emphasized that vineyards can be attacked where a strong attack is recorded on the main host plants. However, attacks on vines are eliminated during pruning. The important thing is to properly dispose of the resulting material. Takahashia japonica is present in Ticino, but with the adequate measures it can be contained. It is fundamental to organize in time, especially on susceptible plants, which are affected in season.

Preventive actions

Citizens can contribute to combating the spread of Takahashia japonica by preventively checking their own plants, especially if they are in an area where the scale insect is present. The indicated interventions have proven to be very useful, although time-consuming in terms of the time required for targeted control. The cantonal authorities recommend following the indications provided in the phytosanitary bulletins to prevent further damage to plants.

Operational details

Practical Analysis

The Takahashia japonica represents a challenge for garden owners and those responsible for public green spaces in Ticino. The scale insect, with its cottony filaments, can cause significant damage to plants if not contained promptly. The phytosanitary measures recommended by the cantonal authorities are fundamental to prevent the spread of this organism. Among the most effective measures are winter treatment with paraffin oil and the use of ladybugs as natural allies. These interventions can be carried out by citizens, provided they follow the guidelines provided in the phytosanitary bulletins.

Comparison with the Previous Situation

Before the introduction of phytosanitary measures, Takahashia japonica could spread more easily, causing greater damage to plants. With the adoption of new measures, it is possible to contain the spread of the scale insect and protect the most susceptible plants. The cantonal authorities have emphasized the importance of acting promptly to prevent further damage. Citizens can contribute to this effort by following the provided guidelines and adopting the recommended measures.

Concrete Scenarios

Imagine a private garden in Sottoceneri where attacks by Takahashia japonica have been reported. The garden owner can follow the guidelines provided in the phytosanitary bulletins to contain the spread of the scale insect. For example, they can carry out a winter treatment with paraffin oil and use ladybugs as natural allies. Additionally, by mid-May, they can intervene mechanically by removing the affected branches through targeted pruning. It is important to maintain a good balance of the plant and proceed with the removal of the egg sacs through brushing using soft tools. The material resulting from these operations must be disposed of in urban solid waste and not taken to a composting center.

Implications for Cross-Border Workers

Cross-border workers who live in Italy and work in Ticino may be affected by the presence of Takahashia japonica in private gardens and public green spaces. It is important that they are aware of the recommended phytosanitary measures and that they take the necessary precautions to protect their plants. The cantonal authorities have emphasized the importance of acting promptly to prevent further damage. Cross-border workers can contribute to this effort by following the provided guidelines and adopting the recommended measures.

Recommended tools

For an updated estimate, use the net salary calculator and the CHF-EUR exchange comparator.

Key points

Concrete action

To contain the spread of Takahashia japonica, it is essential to follow the guidelines provided in the phytosanitary bulletins n°6/2026 and 16/2026, available on the website www.ti.ch/fitosanitario. Here is a step-by-step procedure to protect your plants:

1. Winter treatment: Apply a paraffin oil treatment during winter to prevent the spread of the scale insect. 2. Use of ladybugs: Introduce ladybugs as natural allies to combat Takahashia japonica. 3. Targeted pruning: By mid-May, remove affected branches through targeted pruning, maintaining a good balance of the plant. 4. Removal of egg sacs: Remove the egg sacs by brushing with soft tools. 5. Disposal of material: Dispose of the material resulting from these operations in urban solid waste and do not take it to a composting center.

Deadlines and procedures

Phytosanitary measures must be adopted promptly to prevent further damage to plants. It is important to follow the guidelines provided in the phytosanitary bulletins and act according to the indicated deadlines. Citizens can contribute to this effort by following the provided guidelines and adopting the recommended measures.

Useful tools

For further information and to consult the phytosanitary bulletins, visit the website www.ti.ch/fitosanitario. Additionally, you can use the cost calculator to assess the economic impact of the adopted phytosanitary measures. For those in need of assistance, it is possible to contact the Cantonal Phytosanitary Service of the Cantonal Agriculture Section.

Source: tio.ch