The yellow poplar weevil, also called magnolia leafminer (Odontopus calceatus), feeds on the buds and leaves beginning in early spring. The adult weevil feeds from early spring into summer, but activity declines past midsummer. Sanitation is the best control for this nuisance insect. Regularly clean under the tree, removing all leaves and twigs, especially during late winter. The adult weevil overwinters in this material, and removing its habitat will reduce insect population and damage. Damage is seldom a threat to the tree.

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