The Box Tree Moth has reappeared in Windsor, Ontario—posing a serious threat to one of the region’s most popular ornamental plants: the boxwood shrub. Whether you're a homeowner, real estate investor, or preparing your property for sale, understanding this pest and its potential impact on your curb appeal and property value is more important than ever.
The Box Tree Moth (Cydalima perspectalis) is an invasive species native to Asia. First spotted in Canada in 2018, this pest primarily targets boxwood plants, devouring their leaves and weakening or even killing the shrubs entirely. These moths are small, with distinctive white wings bordered by dark brown and a wingspan of about 4 cm. Their larvae—greenish with black stripes—are the real culprits behind the destruction.
In Spring 2025, Windsor’s landscaping and garden community reported a sharp uptick in Box Tree Moth sightings, particularly in established neighbourhoods like South Windsor, Walkerville, and Tecumseh. Experts believe the mild winter and early spring may have contributed to the early emergence and spread of the pest. If left unchecked, this could lead to widespread damage across private gardens and public green spaces.
If you have boxwood shrubs on your property, take these immediate steps to protect them:
Check your boxwoods for green larvae and webbing. Moths lay eggs on the undersides of leaves, and signs of chewing or skeletonized foliage are red flags.
Products containing Bacillus thuringiensis kurstaki (Btk) are widely recommended in Canada for treating larvae. Apply treatments in early and mid-season for best results.
Remove infested plant material and dispose of it in sealed bags. Avoid composting as it may allow larvae to spread.
Local pest control and landscaping services are gearing up to manage the 2025 outbreak. If you're unsure how to treat your shrubs, consult a certified arborist or a garden centre specializing in native plant health.
Windsor’s real estate market is heating up for summer, and first impressions matter more than ever. Whether you're a homeowner looking to preserve your investment or an agent helping clients prep for a sale, addressing the Box Tree Moth invasion should be a top priority in 2025.
Let’s keep Windsor green, thriving, and market-ready—one shrub at a time.
Here at Jump Realty our agents will give you honest advice on what course of action is best for you in their professional opinion and will always put taking care of your best interests first! With offices in Windsor, Kingsville, LaSalle, Harrow, and Chatham, no matter where you are, a Jump agent is ready to help. Please contact us for any housing needs and let us give you a better real estate experience!
