What are Glassy-Winged Sharpshooters? Invasive Insect Sparks Costco Recall
Summary
California officials are recalling certain grapevine and desert willow plants sold at Costco because they may carry an invasive insect called the glassy-winged sharpshooter. This insect can spread a deadly plant disease called Pierce’s disease, which harms grapevines and threatens California’s large wine industry.Key Facts
- The glassy-winged sharpshooter is an invasive insect that feeds on plants and spreads a harmful bacterium called Xylella fastidiosa.
- Pierce’s disease, caused by this bacterium, can kill grapevines by blocking their water system, and there is no cure.
- California produces over 90% of the US’s grapes, with the grape and wine industry valued at billions of dollars.
- Costco sold grapevine plants between April 21 and May 21, 2026, and desert willow plants between June 24 and July 3, 2026, that may carry the sharpshooter.
- More than 1,300 affected grapevine plants were sold in Santa Clara County, with about 1,180 not yet recovered.
- Agricultural workers are going door-to-door to collect the recalled plants and ask customers to report if they bought any affected plants.
- The recall is currently focused on California counties including Santa Clara, Alameda, Napa, Sonoma, and others.
- The USDA and California Department of Food and Agriculture are involved in managing the response.
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