California officials say 200 desert willow plants sold at seven San Diego Costco locations between June 24 and July 3 may be infested with the glassy-winged sharpshooter, which spreads Pierce's disease — a fatal, incurable infection for grapevines. Authorities urge customers not to return or relocate the plants, but to double-bag and discard them in household trash and to contact local agricultural inspectors if planted. State lawmakers have sought $32.2 million in emergency USDA funding to support tracing, surveying and trapping efforts to prevent an outbreak that could cost up to $104 million per year.
Costco Plants May Harbor Invasive Pest That Spreads Deadly Grapevine Disease
(Photo: USDA)
California officials are warning residents that 200 desert willow plants sold at seven San Diego Costco warehouses between June 24 and July 3 may be infested with the glassy-winged sharpshooter, an invasive leafhopper that transmits Pierce's disease — an incurable bacterial infection that can kill grapevines by clogging their water-conducting tissues.
Why This Matters
The presence of this pest threatens California's wine industry, valued at roughly $84 billion, because infected vine-to-vine spread could cause severe economic and agricultural damage. Authorities say rapid tracing and eradication efforts are underway to limit the risk.
Official Guidance For Consumers
Agricultural officials advise the following:
- Do not return or relocate the desert willow plants to stores or other properties.
- Do not place suspected plants in green-waste or compost bins.
- Dispose safely: Double-bag the plants, seal the bags completely, and put them in your regular household trash.
- If planted: Contact your local agricultural inspector immediately if you have already planted a purchased desert willow.
Scope And Ongoing Response
This is the second Costco-linked detection of the glassy-winged sharpshooter this summer. In late May, officials found the pest in nursery grapevines sold through nearly two dozen wholesalers; those vines may have been taken to homes in at least 38 counties, many near grape-growing regions.
State lawmakers have requested $32.2 million in emergency funding from the U.S. Department of Agriculture to support tracing, surveying and trapping programs. Officials warn that, if left unchecked, the pests could cost the economy up to $104 million per year.
Historical Context
The most severe recent outbreak of Pierce's disease occurred in Temecula Valley in the late 1990s, when the infection destroyed more than 1,000 acres of wine grapes over roughly six years — illustrating the potential long-term consequences if spread is not contained.
Where To Find More Information
For a complete list of counties where the plants are suspected to have been sold and for updates, consult the California Department of Food and Agriculture advisory or contact your local agricultural commissioner.
Key Action: If you bought a desert willow from Costco during June 24–July 3 in San Diego, double-bag and dispose of it in household trash or contact local authorities if already planted.
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