Pam Bennett, Barb Bloetscher, Joe Boggs, Jim Chatfield, Erik Draper, Dave Dyke, Dave Goerig, Tim Malinich, Jane Martin, Amy Stone, and Curtis Young
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June 15, 2006
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This is the Eleventh 2006 edition of the Buckeye Yard and Garden Line (BYGL).
BYGL is developed from a Tuesday morning conference call of Extension
agents, specialists and other contributors in Ohio.
BYGL is also made available on the Internet from the Ohio State University
Horticulture and Crop Science (HCS) in Virtual Perspective website
(http://bygl.osu.edu). Additional fact sheet information on any of
these articles may be found through the OSU fact sheet database (http://plantfacts.osu.edu).
BYGL is a service of OSU Extension and is aided by major support
from the Ohio Nursery and Landscape Association (ONLA), with additional
funding from the Ohio Chapter of the International Society of Arboriculture
(ISA) to the OSU Extension Nursery Landscape, and Turf Team (ENLTT).
Participants in the June 13, 2006 conference included: Pam Bennett (Clark); Barb Bloetscher (Entomology/C. Wayne Ellett Plant and Pest Diagnostic Clinic (CWEPPDC)); Joe Boggs (Hamilton/Piketon); Dave Dyke (Hamilton); Dave Goerig (Mahoning); Becky McCann (ABE Center); Amy Stone (Lucas); Nancy Taylor (CWEPPDC); Curtis Young (Allen) and Randy Zondag (Lake)..
Additional factsheet information on any of these articles may be found
through the OSU Factsheet Database (http://plantfacts.ohio-state.edu/)
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WEATHER WATCH
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This week's weather summary includes data from June 1 - June 14, 2006. Here is the weather summary for 5 OARDC weather stations across the buckeye state.
| Weather Station |
Region of Ohio |
Ave. High Temp F | Ave. Low Temp F | Ave. Temp F | Normal Ave. Temp F | Total Precip " | Normal Precip " | | Perry |
NE |
70.3 |
52.4 |
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N/A |
0.78" |
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| Hoytville |
NW |
76.4 |
54.4 |
65.0 |
67.7 |
1.05" |
1.83" |
| Columbus |
Central |
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68.6 |
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2.02 |
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| Miami |
SW |
78.2 |
59.7 |
68.5 |
67.9 |
4.92" |
1.32" |
| Jackson |
South |
76.0 |
53.0 |
64.8 |
68.4 |
1.23" |
1.74" |
If we look at the total precipitation from January to the current date, here are some comparisons between total precipitation vs. normal precipitation: Hoytville, 16.09" vs. 14.49"; Miami, 21.28" vs. 16.98"; and Jackson, 18.87" vs. 20.28".
For a link to the OARDC Weather Stations, check out: http://www.oardc.ohio-state.edu/centernet/weather.htm
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HORT SHORTS
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GDD (GROWING DEGREE DAYS)
GDD is a measure of the daily maximum and minimum temperature and directly relates to growth and development of plants and insects. The GDD of any zip code location in Ohio is estimated using the GDD of ten OARDC weather stations and is available on the web at the site below.
The range of GDD accumulations in Ohio from north to south is 655 to 1,004. Following is a report of GDD for several locations around Ohio as of June 14, 2006: Painesville, 655; Cleveland, 690; Toledo, 784; Youngstown, 703; Lima, 773; Wooster, 769; Coshocton, 671; Columbus, 771; Springfield, 789; Dayton, 869; Cincinnati, 966; Ironton, 965; Portsmouth, 970; and Piketon, 1,004.
To put these GDD accumulations into perspective, the following is an abbreviated listing of plant and insect species with their respective phenological event and average GDD accumulations at which these events occur. Due to variations in weather, temperature, humidity, etc., these events may occur a few days earlier or later than predicted by the average GDD. By looking at a city, town, or village near you from the above list, or visiting the above web site, you can see what could be taking place in the landscape around you.
Multiflora rose, full bloom, 643; northern catalpa, first bloom, 675; black vine weevil, first leaf notching due to adult feeding, 677; Washington hawthorn, full bloom, 731; calico scale, egg hatch, 748; greater peach tree borer, adult emergence, 775; rhododendron borer, adult emergence, 815; northern catalpa, full bloom, 816; mountain laurel, full bloom, 822; dogwood borer, adult emergence, 830; oakleaf hydrangea, first bloom, 835; cottony maple scale, egg hatch, 851; panicle hydrangea, first bloom, 856; fall webworm, egg hatch (first generation), 867; mimosa webworm, egg hatch (first generation), 874; fuzzy deutzia, full bloom, 884; winged euonymus scale, egg hatch, 892; spruce budscale, egg hatch, 894; winterberry holly, full bloom, 897; panicled goldenraintree, first bloom, 924; June bride littleleaf linden, first bloom, 953; azalea bark scale, egg hatch, 957; Japanese beetle, adult emergence, 970; rosebay rhododendron, first bloom, 1010; and greenspire littleleaf linden, full bloom, 1047.
 
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PLANT PHENOLOGY
Dave Dyke reported that southern magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora) was in full bloom in the Cincinnati area and was magnificent. Pam Bennett and Curtis Young noted the following plants in bloom in the Springfield and Lima areas: northern catalpa (Catalpa speciosa), Virginia sweetspire 'Little Henry' (Itea virginica), elderberries (Sambucus Canadensis), the later-blooming spiraeas ('Gold Flame', 'Little Princess', etc.), oakleaf and snowball hydrangea (Hydrangea spp.), and many of the roses (Rosa spp). Japanese tree lilac (Syringa reticulate) and sweetbay magnolia (Magnolia virginiana) were just finishing up.
Dave Goerig and Randy Zondag noted the following up in the northeast part of the state: the elderberries were at first bloom, tulip poplars (Liriodendron tulipifera) were in full bloom, and the weigelas (Weigela spp.) were fading.
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PLANTS OF THE WEEK
Read all about perennials and landscape trees and shrubs in the ONLA publications "Perennial Plants for Ohio" and "Landscape Plants for Ohio." The descriptions and photographs of plants were provided for these publications by the OSU ENLT Team along with other industry plant lovers. These full-color publications are available at http://Buckeyegardening.com for $5.00. Click on "garden store" and then "onla plant guides." ONLA members can purchase these in quantities at a reduced price at http://onla.org.
* PERENNIAL PLANT OF THE WEEK. Goat's beard (Aruncus dioicus) is a majestic shade garden perennial that is currently in full bloom in central Ohio. The towering white, fluffy flowers are held above the fernlike foliage on approximately 5-6' stems and are creamy white. They start to bloom in June and last through July and resemble the blooms of Astilbe spp. The slow-growing perennial takes time to establish but make sure it has plenty of space.
* WOODY PLANT OF THE WEEK. Silver linden (Tilia tomentosa) is quickly becoming a "tree of choice" among ENLTer's, this beautiful shade tree is in full bloom in central Ohio now. The silver linden is an excellent medium-to-large shade tree that also performs well as a street tree. The silvery-colored lower side of the leaf contrasts with the dark green upper surface and is visible and quite attractive when the wind blows. The tree has relatively few pest problems (at this time!) and seems to be tolerant to Japanese beetle feeding, a feature that cannot be claimed for littleleaf linden. The cultivar 'Sterling' has a magnificent overall structure with a broad pyramidal crown.
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HOGWEED BURGEONING
Dave Goerig reported this week that Heracleum mantegazzianum (a.k.a. giant hogweed) is coming into full bloom in northeast Ohio. This noxious weed is a member of the Apiaceae (Umbelliferae) family. The flower structures appear in the shape of umbrellas when in full bloom, and retain that shape as each of the little flowers are pollinated and begin to produce seed. Giant hogweed flowers look similar in appearance to other members of the Apiaceae family, such as wild carrot (Daucus carota) and cow parsnip (Heracleum lanatum). However, the white hogweed umbels can reach a truly impressive size, up to 5' in diameter. The entire plant can attain a growing height of 15'. This is truly a giant.
Gardeners, landscapers, and nurserymen should exercise extreme caution around this plant; the plant's juices can cause phytophotodermatitis to the skin. If the plant's sap comes in contact with the skin in the presence of sunlight, a severe rash and/or blistering can occur. As reported in previous BYGLs, giant hogweed is on the state and federal noxious weed list, which makes it illegal to sell, propagate, or transport. Dave noted that David Marrison (OSU Extension, Ashtabula County) has been working closely with local officials to identify infestations and to monitor eradication efforts that focused on stands of hogweed found last year.
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BUTCHERED TREES
Dave Dyke reported that he has been appalled by the butchering of some of the trees in his area the last couple of weeks. Ironically, that butchery is often associated with attempts to repair wind damage from a major storm that blew through the Cincinnati area a few weeks ago. Many homeowners have attempted to prune out damaged limbs themselves rather than seeking services from an International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) Certified Arborist. The results have been a proliferation of 1 - 3' stubs up to 12" in diameter sticking out of the trunks like very, very sore thumbs.
Those stubs will most likely rot back into the trunk, rather than heal over, if they are not properly pruned back to the collar. Often those stubs were also split back towards the main trunk - the result of not undercutting the limb before it was pruned.
There are many good articles and FactSheets that are available to assist the homeowner in properly responding to damage to their trees, and to determine how and when to prune. These include: OSU FactSheet HYG 3045-96, "How to Care for Tree Wounds" http://ohioline.osu.edu/hyg-fact/3000/3045.html, OSU FactSheet HYG 1032-96, "How to Hire an Arborist" http://ohioline.osu.edu/hyg-fact/1000/1032.html, and the ISA "Trees Are Good" web site http://www.treesaregood.com/.
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SQUIRREL DAMAGE ON LARGE TREES
As part of the America in Bloom www.americainbloom.org competition, Pam Bennett visited the University of Missouri-Columbia (Mizzou) campus last week and observed extreme squirrel damage on red and scarlet oaks. The large oaks, at least 60' tall, had areas on the trunk that resembled burls or strange growths. This was the tree's response to the squirrels chewing on the bark.
Squirrels can cause various damage to trees ranging from nipping off the tips of branches of conifers and hardwoods in order to get to the cortical tissue), to the v-shaped wounds made by the red squirrels seeking sap in maples, to gray squirrels stripping bark on conifers and hardwoods (eating and making nests), to the gnawing damage that was viewed on the oaks at Mizzou.
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BUG BYTES
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EAB FOUND OUTSIDE OF CHICAGO
The Illinois Department of Agriculture announced Wednesday that a beetle found in the yard of a Kane County home is an emerald ash borer (EAB). The infestation is about 40 miles west of Chicago.
EAB is a small, metallic-green beetle native to Asia. Since it was first confirmed in Michigan in the summer of 2002, more than 15 million ash trees have died or are dying in Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, and Ontario, Canada.
The homeowner discovered the beetle and alerted the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service's Illinois field office, which sent the insect to its lab in Romulus, Mich., for identification and notified IDOA nursery inspectors.
Inspectors have not determined how the beetle arrived in Illinois, but suspect it may have been transported in contaminated firewood from a quarantined area in Michigan. EAB typically moves only short distances by flying, but can survive long distances in transit on ash nursery stock, ash logs, branches, and firewood. To avoid the accidental introduction of the beetle to new areas, people are advised to purchase only locally-cut firewood.
For additional information on EAB, check out OSU's website at http://ashalert.osu.edu.
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AMBROSIA BEETLE ACTIVITY
Randy Zondag reported that he is seeing ambrosia beetle activity on a wide range of tree species in northeast Ohio nurseries. Ambrosia beetles belong to the family Scolytidae. They bore into trees producing shot-sized holes and release a fungus (the "ambrosia") that is stored in special oral structures called mycetangia. The fungus colonizes vascular tissue and serves as a food for the larvae. The larvae do not feed on wood.
Ohio is home to a number of species of native ambrosia beetles that focus their attention on dead or dying trees. Their ambrosia fungi stain wood so they are sometimes a serious lumber pest. However, in recent years, the eastern and central U.S. has also become home to a number of non-native ambrosia beetles. These non-native beetles will infest living trees, although there is evidence they select stressed trees. Their ambrosia fungi do not stain wood, but the fungal growth will clog vascular tissue, causing infested trees to die. The Asian ambrosia beetle (Xylosandrus crassiusculus) was one of the first identified, but other Asian beetles as well as a few from Europe have been added to the mix.
Evidence of ambrosia beetle activity includes numerous shot-sized holes as well as copious quantities of white, fine sawdust-like frass discharged from the holes. The frass may stick together causing infested trees to become festooned with toothpick-like spines of frass protruding from the holes.
Controls include addressing tree stress issues such as poor fertilization, irrigation, etc. Heavily infested trees should be removed and destroyed and trees located nearby should be protected with insecticide bark applications. Pyrethroid insecticides, such as permethrin or cyfluthrin, have proven effective. Applications must be made to trunks and branches at 4-week intervals throughout the growing season.
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LACE BUGS ARE LITTLE
Dave Goerig reported that the Mahoning county Extension office recently received a sample of an azalea plant that had foliage showing symptoms of stippling. Once the specimen was observed under a stereo dissecting scope, it was obvious the stippling was not paint residue but caused by lace bug nymphs. Even in the adult stage, lace bugs are very small creatures measuring about 1/5" in length. As nymphs, they are even smaller.
Lace bugs are members of the Hemiptera family Tingidae. Most feed on the undersides of plant leaves. Their piercing-sucking mouthparts create wounds that are responsible for the stippling symptom on the tops of the leaves. The lace bugs feeding behavior poses a challenge to landscape and grounds managers as they need to target their control application to the underside of the leaves. Those belonging to the genus Stephanitis generally feed on broad-leaved evergreens. These lace bugs overwinter as eggs that hatch in the spring. The AZALEA LACE BUG (S. pyrioides) is one of the most damaging lace bugs associated with landscape plants in Ohio and has two and sometimes three generations per year.
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ERIE EARWIGS!
Due to the cooler temperatures and regular rainfalls, earwigs have become a common sight in homes and landscapes. These primitive, almost prehistoric-looking, flattened insects have long cerci, or "pinchers" at the tip of their abdomens, which cause a great deal of alarm to the uninformed. Actually, earwigs are considered to be beneficial, as they eat small insects hiding in plants and mulch.
The most common species in Ohio is the European earwig, Forficula auricularia, which grow to be 16-18 mm long. They are a dark reddish brown with lighter wings, yet the cerci are light yellow to amber. Adults overwinter in protected areas then lay several batches of eggs in earthen cells. Interestingly, the female tends newly hatched nymphs, and then the nymphs continue to develop through 4-5 nymphal stages.
Earwigs are often implicated with holes chewed in tender leaves; however, the majority of their diet consists of both live and dead insects. Occasionally, they will invade homes if cracks are present through which they can crawl. The most efficient way to keep earwigs and other insects out of buildings is to seal and caulk the exterior, especially around windows, doorways, vents, and areas where pipes and lines are inserted. Remove mulch, piles of organic matter, and plants within 8" of the perimeter, and direct irrigation heads away from the walls. Without their habitat and shelter, earwigs will be less likely to reside near the foundation.
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TICK-TALK
Ticks are bloodsucking arachnids that belong to the family Ixodidae. Many species are carriers of disease. Several BYGLers noted that they and other Extensioneers are receiving reports of increased tick activity throughout much of Ohio.
There are numerous species of ticks that occur in the state. The most frequently encountered tick is Dermacentor variabilis, commonly referred to as the AMERICAN DOG TICK. This tick can be identified easily by the light and dark brown mottled color patterns on its body. Adults are most abundant from mid-April to mid-July. Most ticks are found on the foliage and stems of plants in natural areas, abandoned fields, vacant lots, along overgrown property lines, and hiking trails.
Ticks can be managed simply by eliminating their habitat. This can be accomplished through string trimming and mowing the tall plant material found on the property. If mechanical controls are not practical, chemical controls are available that will reduce populations as well as work as repellents. Finally, ticks can be avoided by using repellents applied to clothing or skin that contain the active ingredient DEET (N,N-diethyl-meta-toluamide). DEET will also repel other blood-sucking summer villains such as mosquitoes, biting flies, etc.
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HONEY BEE SWARMS CONTINUE
Calls regarding honey bee swarms continue to fly into extension offices and emergency units, thanks to the warm weather interspersed with sunny days and the prolonged flowering of annuals, shrubs, and trees. The last few springs have been plagued with cool temperatures and constant rainfall, which not only inhibits the bees from flying, but also washes pollen and nectar from the flowers.
During cool, rainy days, bees are forced to use food stored in the hive to feed the larvae, which prevents them from accumulating any reserve. This year, the bees have been able to collect a constant supply of nectar with which to make honey. Because of this, many of the larvae have been able to be fed and develop into worker bees contributing to the overall size of the hives.
Once the hive becomes overcrowded, the colony's natural response is to split. A new queen is produced who will fight for ownership of the hive. The former queen then leaves with 400-1000 loyal workers to find a new "home". This mass of bees can be seen zigzagging through the sky until it finds a temporary place to hang out. Once settled, several "scout" bees will search for a protected hollow, usually in a tree, in which to form a new hive. After the scout has given information about the future site to the "swarm," or mass of bees, they will leave the temporary location and fly en masse, to their new "home".
Points to remember when people call:
1) Honey bees are incredibly docile when they are swarming, and are not likely to sting people or pets.
2) Most swarms will leave within 24 hours.
3) Beekeepers are happy to collect these swarms, call the police, park, or extension office for a beekeeper's phone number.
4) DO NOT call an exterminator to kill the swarm. Honey bees are not harmful and will leave people alone as long as they are not aggressively agitated.
5) Honey bee "nests" are made of honey comb or wax and do not contain paper or mud. Honey bees are often confused with yellow jackets; however, honey bees are soft, brownish and fuzzy, while yellow jackets are smooth, shiny and yellow/black striped.
6) Call OSU Extension with questions before acting.
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GIANT SILK MOTHS EMERGE!
The giant silk moths (Family Saturniinae) have begun to emerge and are often found resting on the sides of buildings and near outdoor lights. Sadly, some people fear these huge beautiful moths and kill them out of ignorance.
Silk moth caterpillars may also provoke poorly advised responses because of their overall size. They are normally smooth, green, fleshy, and grow to be 8-10 cm long! Because they are not common and are solitary eaters, the caterpillars usually do not remove enough leaves from mature trees to harm the trees and are often eaten by birds before reaching the last instar. Instead of squashing these spectacular insects, allow the caterpillars to finish their development. Make life easier for the moths by turning off outdoor lights when the moths are active, or use yellow lights which do not attract moths (and night flying predators). Simply put, it is best to enjoy these giant creatures of the night.
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WINDSHIELD WIPES
BYGLers also ran into a few other insects this week including:
* GYSPY MOTH UPDATE. BYGLers across the northern portion of the state mentioned gypsy moths in their reports. Amy Stone reported seeing caterpillars that ranged from 3rd to 6th instars, and even a few pupae. She also noted observing caterpillars that had been killed by the nuclear polyhedrosis virus (NVP), or by the fungus Entomophaga maimaiga (yeah!). Development isnt quite as far along in the Lake County area. Randy Zondag reported seeing 3rd and 4th instar caterpillars.
*BASSWOOD LEAFMINER ADULTS. Curtis Young observed bassword leafminer adults (beetles) feeding on the leaves of sucker growth around the bases of several AMERICAN BASSWOODS or LINDENS (Tilia Americana) located on the Seneca County Fairgrounds in Tiffin, Ohio. The adults were both feeding and mating, preparing to lay the eggs of the leafmining larvae. Blotch mines will be produced by these larvae and eventually new adults will emerge in August, then overwinter. The feeding by these new adults will turn basswoods prematurely brown in August and September. Thus far, this insect has mostly been a wood lot problem.
*INTRODUCED PINE SAWFLY. Curtis Young reported finding mature introduced pine sawflies (Diprion similis) on EASTERN WHITE PINE (Pinus strobus) in Lima, Ohio. This pine sawfly has at least two generations per year. It feeds on a wide range of pines, including white, red, Scots, and jack. The mature larva has a black head and body with rows of golden-yellow dots down the length of the body.
*BLACK VINE WEEVIL. Randy Zondag reported that adult black vine weevils (Otiorhynchus sulcatus) are actively walking around in Lake County. These female beetles (sadly, there are no males) will feed for a period of time on numerous host plants then drop to the soil to lay eggs for the next generation. Foliar treatments for black vine weevil adults should be applied now before egg laying begins.
*EUONYMUS SCALE CRAWLERS. Randy Zondag also reported observing the crawler stage of the euonymus scale (Unaspis euonymi) dispersing on host plants. This serves as a reminder to check your plants for this pest and take corrective action where necessary while they are in this vulnerable stage.
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DISEASE DIGEST
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DOGWOOD ANTHRACNOSE
Joe Boggs reported observing noticeable damage on dogwoods in southwest Ohio from dogwood anthracnose. The pathogen causing the dogwood anthracnose is Discula destructive, which overwinters on dead twigs and leaves, both on the tree and ground. Tiny brown fruiting bodies of the fungus are easy to see on dead twigs and leaves. Certain cultivars are more resistant than others, but the highest resistance is found with the Cornus kousa varieties.
Symptoms include large, brown, irregularly shaped blotches on leaves. Often, the diseased area is at or near the leaf tip, centered approximately on the mid-vein. In severe cases defoliation and brown, elliptical, twig cankers may occur. If repeated for several years, the trees may weaken and eventually die.
Cultural control of this disease includes: pruning and destroying infected twigs; raking and destroying fallen leaves from spring through fall; and avoiding irrigation that wets the tree canopy. Fungicides may be used as a supplement to cultural control programs; however, it is too late to halt current infections. Applications must begin at bud break in the spring with 3 - 4 sprays during leaf expansion at 10 - 14 day intervals. Additional applications may be necessary later in the growing season if periods of wet weather occur and there are infected leaves or twigs on the tree. Effective fungicides include propiconazole (e.g. Banner), chlorothalonil (e.g. Daconil 2787), and mancozeb + thiophanate methyl (e.g. Cleary's 3336, Domain).
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ROTTEN CROWNS
This title doesn't refer to some far off corrupt and ailing monarchy. Rather, it refers to a very real ailment much closer to home - and the pocketbooks of greenhouse producers - PHYTOPHTHORA CROWN ROT on GERBERA DAISY (Gerbera jamesonii) and RUDBECKIA. Nancy Taylor reported that these diseases were diagnosed after receiving samples in the CWEPPDC this past week. The Rudbeckia came from a greenhouse grower who noticed that about 10% of his greenhouse crop was starting to wilt and collapse.
The fungi that cause root and crown rots commonly belong to two genera: Phytophthora and Pythium. Both are sometimes collectively referred to as the water molds. Wet soils (70% moisture or higher) provide ideal conditions for the growth of these fungi. Also, both of these plant pathogens can be spread by fungus gnats and shore flies.
Many, if not most, Phytophthora species can infect roots in the same manner as Pythium species. In addition, Phytophthora species infect larger roots and stems, particularly in woody plants. Infection of the bases of stems or root crowns is very common under wet conditions. Aerial parts, including branches and shoots, also can be infected under wet conditions if soil water is splashed on these aboveground parts. Plants become stunted, low in vigor, and appear as if they are water stressed. Foliage yellows and the plant may wilt and die. Roots rot and stems are girdled by the fungi at or below the soil line, resulting in a dark brown rot.
For further information on this disease, including control measures, refer to "UC IPM Online", University of California, at http://www.ipm.ucdavis.edu/PMG/r280190411.html, and "OFA Tips on Managing Floriculture Crop Problems", O. F. A. Services, Inc. (available from Ball Publishing at http://www.ballpublishing.com/commerce/SearchResult.aspx?CategoryID=26.
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EPIMEDIUM PROBLEMS
Dave Dyke recently was asked by a grower to look at some BARRENWORT (Epimedium spp.) plants that were exhibiting a variety of disease symptoms: yellowing, necrotic lesions on the foliage, and mild to total plant dieback. They also exhibited some viral symptoms, such as unusual blotching and circular patterns on the foliage. An examination of the roots revealed extensive root rotting.
Dave sent samples of these plants to the CWEPPDC, where they were diagnosed with PYTHIUM ROOT ROT by Nancy Taylor. She also reported that tests for common Epimedium viruses were negative but that she felt it worthwhile to send the plants to a lab equipped to do further virus testing. We will keep you apprised of the results of those tests.
For further information on these diseases refer to "Root Rot Diseases of Flowering Potted Plants", Kansas State University at http://www.oznet.k-state.edu/path-ext/factSheets/Ornamentals/Root%20Rot%20Diseases%20of%20Flowering%20Plants.asp. For control measures also refer to the sources listed in the above article, "Rotten Crowns".
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"MEASLES" ON PEONIES???
Becky McCann noted that she observed peonies with unusual reddish-purple leaf spots. These spots are commonly referred to as "measles," although plants cannot contract this viral disease of animals. The plant fungal pathogen responsible for the symptoms is Cladosporium paeoniae.
The fungus emerges during warm, humid weather and first appears as small circular discolored spots on the leaves (the "measles). The spots may enlarge and run together to form irregular leaf blotches. The bottom surface of the leaf becomes light brown and the upper surface becomes purplish. Symptoms may appear on young stems as reddish-brown spots or streaks. Sanitation is the best option for control of this disease.
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TURF TIPS
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ARMYWORMS INVADING TURF
Armyworm, also called common armyworm (Pseudaletia unipuncta), caterpillars have once again grabbed the attention of Ohio wheat and corn growers. Heavy populations of armyworms are being observed in wheat fields devouring the leaves of the plants in several areas of the state, especially northwestern Ohio. In addition to these observations, several reports of disappearing turf have also been recorded.
The armyworm caterpillar is strictly a grass-feeding insect and almost any grass will do, be it crop plants or turfgrass. As field crops, especially wheat, matures they become less desirable as a food for armyworms. The caterpillar will then leave en masse to find "greener pastures." Any turfgrass within walking distance for the caterpillars becomes fair game. The caterpillars will cross roads, bare fields, and other obstacles except bodies of water (e.g. streams, ponds, pools, etc.) to get to their next meal. Thus, landscapes may come under siege by armyworm caterpillars. Golf courses, parks, and athletic fields will also be prime targets for the armyworm.
Turfgrass should be monitored for armyworm activity. Thin, stemmy patches of turf and/or patches stripped clean of foliage should be investigated closely. Use a soap solution to flush and determine if caterpillars are present in the turf. If armyworm caterpillars appear to be a problem, refer to OSU Extension Bulletin L-187, "Management of Turfgrass Pests" for control recommendations.
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INDUSTRY INSIGHT
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TOUR OF MICHIGAN PROVIDES VALUABLE INSIGHT
Last Friday, a group from the Toledo Area Metropark's Blue Ribbon Task Force visited three sites in Michigan to learn more about emerald ash borer (EAB) management efforts taking place in the "experienced" state up north. Jessica Simons (Southeastern Michigan RC&D) highlighted some of the grants their office have been able to provide and her work with ash utilization in southeastern Michigan through the support of the US Forest Service. Projects included purchasing a kiln and portable sawmills, working with a new local library to install ash floors and woodwork, and educational signage to promote the use of local ash resources. To learn more of these efforts check out the SE Michigan RC&D website at http://www.semircd.org/ash/index.php.
The group also visited with LaMont Brothers in Whitmore Lake, Michigan. This tree care company has expanded its services, and because of a grant to assist with the purchase of a portable sawmills, is now making railroad ties, lumber, wood chips for a power plant to use as a source of energy, and mulch. All wood materials are coming from ash trees being taken down in southeastern Michigan because of EAB.
Our final stop was at Willow Metropark off of I-275, south of the Detroit Airport. This park is part of a 29,000 acre park system that encompasses 5 counties. The land manager spoke of how much effort their natural resource crews have spent on ash removals, and how this activity has had to become a priority. Just keeping up with the dead and dying ash trees has been a challenge of time management and money.
This tour and other trips to Michigan have opened our eyes to the reality that cities, townships, and villages will be facing sooner or later. No matter your distance from a known infestation, now is the time to develop your plan. Whether you are a homeowner with one tree; an arborist who will be asked to take care of hundreds of ash trees; a woodlot owner with a woodlot full of ash; or a municipality with hundreds or thousands of ash between the street and the sidewalk; now is the time to plan.
You have an opportunity to see what is happening in the infested area at the end of this month. Check out the article titled "EAB Bus Tour: June 28" in the "Coming Attraction" section below.
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A SAMPLING NOTE FROM THE CWEPPDC
Nancy Taylor of the C. Wayne Ellett Plant and Pest Diagnostic Clinic (CWEPPDC) presented a request and a reminder of how to collect samples for wilt disease diagnostics. Specifically the diseases of concern are DUTCH ELM DISEASE, OAK WILT and VERTICELLIUM WILT.
When requesting a diagnosis of these diseases, send a fresh sample from an actively wilting (dying) portion of the plant. Material that is already dead (killed last year or older) will have no living fungi to culture and identify for a diagnosis.
Cut a section(s) of branch 6-8" in length and at least 1/2" in diameter or larger better from an actively wilting branch. Wrap the sections in paper, but do not place in a plastic sealed bag. Ship the samples to the clinic as soon as possible. It is best to send samples on a Monday or Tuesday so they arrive before the end of the week to prevent them from sitting in a delivery truck or on a loading dock under unfavorable conditions. For more information on sampling for plant disorders, visit the CWEPPDC's website at: and http://ppdc.osu.edu/plantdis.html for tips on proper sampling procedures.
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SALTING RABBITS
Leave it to Randy Zondag to bring the latest in nursery technology to our attention. In this case it is the prevention of rabbit damage to trickle irrigation lines. These toothy critters have a nasty habit of chewing through the thin irrigation lines in order to consume some of the salt that accumulates on them during the manufacturing process, or through fertilizer leakage.
Sage Zondag reported that growers in his area have had good results in preventing the rabbit damage by simply putting out salt blocks that are manufactured for the livestock industry. The blocks are available at most feed stores. Of course, salt blocks are also sometimes used by well-meaning homeowner to attract deer. Hmmm - could that create other problems in the nursery?
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COMING ATTRACTIONS
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2006 PLANT HEALTH CARE WORKSHOP
The 2006 PLANT HEALTH CARE WORKSHOP "Selection and Management of Trees in Hostile Environments" will be held on July 19-20 at the OARDC in Wooster, Ohio. The keynote speaker will be Dr. Ed Gilman, University of Florida, who will give presentations on "How tree biology should drive urban forestry and arboricultural practices", and "Urban designs compatible with successful urban forestry." Other presentations will focus on root regeneration, the Next Shade Tree Evaluation Project, resource allocation pattern of trees, mycorrhizae and other soil amendments. Registration is limited so act now to reserve your space. The $225 fee includes lunch both days, dinner on the 19th, resource materials, and handouts. For registration and program information, contact Denise Ellsworth, OSU Extension, Summit County, 330-928-4769, ext. 21, or ellsworth.2@osu.edu
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ASH UTILIZATION WORKSHOP
Wondering what can you do with your ash? This workshop is geared towards the urban audience. As EAB moves through the state, there will be an enormous amount of ash material to be disposed of. Instead of chipping it all, there is a resource that can be utilized. Come find out what your options are. A brochure and registration materials for the program scheduled for Friday, July 7th in Findlay, Ohio can be requested by contacting Amy Stone at 419-578-6783, or by email at stonea@ag.osu.edu.
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EAB BUS TOUR: JUNE 28
Many have requested an opportunity to see EAB at work. This is the time to learn more about this damaging insect pest before it is discovered in your own backyard. If you have any doubts about the economic, safety, and political impacts of EAB, then you will not want to miss this chance to see the damage first-hand and hear from local officials about their experiences. There is an all day program on June 28 (tour am/program pm) scheduled for those from NW Ohio, and an afternoon tour for those outside of NW Ohio.
The Honorable Sandra Cicerelli, Mayor of Westland, Michigan will be the guest speaker for the lunch. Mayor Cicerelli's experiences dealing with EAB in her city was featured in "The Green Menace," a PBS special. She will be sharing her insights with the group. We are also pleased to have several good-news stories about community forestry efforts in NW Ohio The program was planned with mayors, administrators, safety/service directors, and tree commission members in mind, but is open to professional arborists, park managers, and others interested in learning more about EAB. It will be a trip to remember and well worth your time.
International Society of Arboriculture CEU's and Society of American Foresters CFE's are available for this event. If you have any questions regarding this educational event, call Stephanie Miller or Marianne Prue with the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, Division of Forestry at 419-424-5004. Registration materials for either tour can also be downloaded on-line at http://www.dnr.state.oh.us/forestry/urban/meetings.htm
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BYGLOSOPHY
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"Suburbia is where the developer bulldozes out the trees, then names the streets after them." -- Bill Vaughan
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