BYGL is available via email, contact Cheryl Fischnich [ This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it ] to subscribe.  Additional fact sheet information on any of these articles may be found through the OSU FactSheet database [ http://plantfacts.osu.edu/ ].

BYGL is a service of OSU Extension and is aided by major support from the ONLA (Ohio Nursery and Landscape Association) [ http://onla.org/ ; http://buckeyegardening.com/ ] to the OSU Extension Nursery, Landscape and Turf Team (ENLTT).  Any materials in this newsletter may be reproduced for educational purposes providing the source is credited.

BYGL is available online at: [ http://bygl.osu.edu ], a web site sponsored by the Ohio State University Department of Horticulture and Crop Sciences (HCS) as part of the "Horticulture in Virtual Perspective."  The online version of BYGL has images associated with the articles and links to additional information.

Following are the participants in the October 6th conference call:  Pam Bennett (Clark); Barb Bloetscher (C. Wayne Ellett Plant and Pest Diagnostic Clinic (CWEPPDC)); Joe Boggs (Hamilton); Dave Dyke (Hamilton); Becky McCann (Agriculture Business Enhancement Center); Bridget Meiring (CWEPPDC); Gary Gao (Delaware); Amy Stone (Lucas); Nancy Taylor (CWEPPDC); and Curtis Young (Hancock).

***  BYGL NOTICE.  As the days shorten, so will the BYGL ... in frequency, not length.  There will be NO BYGL next week (October 15, 2009).  The BYGL will return the following week (October 22, 2009) for one final fall howl, and then it will retreat to its doghouse for a long winter nap.

However, the much anticipated, always exciting, annual BYGL survey will arrive in late October or early November.  We hope you will spend a little time helping us by answering our survey questions.  We look forward to the comments and appreciate everyone's suggestions for improvements.  There is one point we're sure we all agree on:  the 2009 BYGL season went too fast, doggone it!

1. WEATHERWATCH.
2. HORT SHORTS:  Seasonal Needle Yellowing of Evergreens; and Plants of the Week:  Annual (Flowering Cabbage/Kale), Perennial (Monkshood), Woody ('Tiger Eyes' Sumac), and Weed (Bittersweet Nightshade).
3. GREEN SHORTS:  The State Botanical Garden of Kentucky Rain Garden - A Large Scale Landscape Storm Water Management Model; and Locating Rain Gardens and Other 'Green' Storm Water Management Systems in Southern and Northern Ohio. 
4. CLINIC CLIPS. 
5. BUGBYTES:  Spruce Spider Mites Arise; Multicolored Asian Lady Beetle Home Invasions; and Cedar Beetles Mating.
6. DISEASE DIGEST:  The Twisted Story of Rose Rosette Disease.
7. TURF TIPS:  Tune-up Your Lawnmower in Fall; and Broadleaf Weed Control Reminder
8. INDUSTRY INSIGHTS:  Highlights from the Buckeye-Bluegrass BYGLive!
9. COMING ATTRACTIONS:  2009 Fall Certified Arborist Preparation Course; Tree Seminars; Why Trees Matter CAPGIN Meeting; Why Trees Matter Forum; and Dates Set for Commercial Applicator Recertification Conferences. 
10. BYGLOSOPHY.

1.  WEATHERWATCH.  The following weather information summarizes data collected at various Ohio Agricultural Research Development Center (OARDC) Weather Stations spanning the dates:  October 1-October 6, 2009, with the exception of the soil temperatures which are readings from Wednesday, October 7, 2009 at 12:00 p.m.

Most BYGLers reported being on the receiving end of a frost (or a few frosts) last week, but depending upon the microclimate and the actual location of the plants, some were hit harder than others.

For a link to the OARDC Weather Stations, visit:  [ http://www.oardc.ohio-state.edu/centernet/weather.htm ]

2.  HORT SHORTS.

A.  SEASONAL NEEDLE YELLOWING OF EVERGREENS

Every fall BYGLers are reminded of the need to trot out one of our favorite quotes from Wisconsin naturalist and conservationist Aldo Leopold.  Namely, his eloquent quote regarding the normal seasonal inner needle yellowing of evergreen conifers such as pine and spruce.  We get questions about why these inner needles are yellowing, browning and eventually dropping.  Here is Aldo Leopold's answer:

"Pines have earned the reputation of being 'evergreen' by the same device that governments use to achieve the appearance of perpetuity:  overlapping terms of office.  By taking on new needles on the new growth of each year, and discarding old needles at longer intervals, they have led the casual onlooker to believe that needles remain forever green."

"Each species of pine [and spruce, and fir, etc.] has its own constitution, which prescribes a term of office for needles appropriate for its way of life.  Thus the white pine retains its needles for a year and a half; the red and the jack pines for two years and a half.  Incoming needles take office each June and outgoing needles write their farewell addresses in October.  All write the same thing, in the same tawny yellow ink, which by November turns brown.  Then the needles fall, and are filed in the duff to enrich the wisdom of the stand.  It is this accumulated wisdom that hushes the footsteps of whoever walks under pines."

B.  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 ].

*ANNUAL - FLOWERING CABBAGE/KALE (Brassica spp.).  This colorful and long-lasting plant adds color to the landscape throughout the fall and even in to winter if weather conditions are conducive to growth.  These plants, native to the Mediterranean, are related to broccoli, cauliflower and collards.  However, they have a little better ornamental value and can be quite striking.  Despite the name, flowering, the foliage is really the attractive portion.  In addition, they are quite hardy and once established, can survive temperatures into the mid-teens; therefore, they may even put on a landscape show around the holidays!

They prefer full sun and well-drained soil.  Fertilize at the time of planting.  Mulch after planting to conserve moisture, and if it's dry throughout the fall, water as needed.  For the most part, these plants go through the winter easily.  However, if extremely cold temperatures are predicted, cover to protect them.  A good snow cover also helps.

The bright colors are a nice addition to the winter landscape.  Depending upon the variety, the foliage can be reddish, purple, pink, white, and a variety of greens.  In addition, the foliage can be smooth around the edges or extremely crinkly.  When they start to get large and overgrown in the spring, pull them and compost.

*PERENNIAL - MONKSHOOD (Aconitum carmichaelii).  The normal bloom period for monkshood is late August through September; however, it's still in full bloom in many Ohio gardens.  There are over 250 species of Aconitum; they are in the buttercup family.  This particular species has incredible blue-purple "hooded" flowers that are on stems around 3' tall.  The upper sepal of the flower develops into a large, helmet-like structure that sort of resembles the hood worn by medieval monks.  This is where the common name is derived. 

Monkshood prefers moist soils in full sun to part shade; do not let soils dry out.  Plant them in moist woodland areas, along stream or ponds or on the edges of bog or water gardens.   They are best left alone once established.  All parts of the plant are extremely poisonous so it's best in a garden where children do not have access to the plants.

*WOODY - 'TIGER EYES' SUMAC (Rhus typhina).  Wow - this plant has incredible fall color and in central Ohio, it's glowing in the landscape.  'Tiger Eyes' is a 2004 introduction and is a cutleaf staghorn sumac that has a bright yellow leaf color in the growing season.  In the fall, the brilliant scarlet, orange, and yellow fall color is luminous in the landscape and can't be missed.  The fuzzy-looking stems are a purplish-pink color and add a nice winter feature to this plant.

The plant is a dwarf, slow-spreading selection and gets to around 6-8' tall with a similar spread.  It eventually forms an upright rounded shrub with bold architectural characteristics.  It also tolerates poor soils and prefers full sun but will tolerate part shade.

*THE WEEKLY WEED - BITTERSWEET NIGHTSHADE (Solanum dulcamara).  This perennial climbing or trailing vine reproduces by seeds and can root at the nodes of the prostrate stems that come in contact with the soil.  The hollow stems are often woody at the base, and the oval shaped leaves have pointed tips.  At the base of the larger leaves are 2 opposite lobes or leaflets, which are absent in the smaller leaves.  The flowers are blue-violet in color and have 5 petals.  The fruit is a red berry with yellow seeds inside.  If the plant is bruised, the odor is described by many as disagreeable.

The leaves of bittersweet nightshade are considered moderately poisonous if ingested, and there is much disagreement over the toxicity of the berries.  Some say that paralysis can result in humans that have eaten as few as 6 berries.  Cases of poisoning in cattle, horses, and sheep have been documented.  Concentrations of toxic compounds within plants may vary with growth stage, and chemical components may vary from one individual to the next.  Regardless, leaves and berries of the plant should be regarded as toxic.

3.  GREEN SHORTS.   

A.  THE STATE BOTANICAL GARDEN OF KENTUCKY RAIN GARDEN - A LARGE SCALE LANDSCAPE STORM WATER MANAGEMENT MODEL.  Those attending the Bluegrass BYGLive! at the Arboretum, Botanical Garden of Kentucky, Lexington, this past week were in for many treats.  One of those was an opportunity to observe a very well designed and executed landscape storm water management installation.  Notice that we have used the term installation, while the arboretum calls it a rain garden.  Why the distinction?  Well … the rain garden is actually a swale about 200-300 yards long that was created about 15 years ago that was converted to a series of 2 rain gardens, a wetland, and a detention pond a few years ago.  The swale received the runoff from approximately 40 acres.  That runoff occasionally flooded homes at the bottom of the slope where the swale ended.  Therefore, it was converted into its current configuration to eliminate that flooding, which it has successfully done so far in spite of some recent 3-5" rains.

The rain gardens were established by constructing 2 berms or "brakes" approximately 3' high across the swale.  Limestone rocks were installed at the overflow points on the berms to prevent erosion.  Trees, primarily WILLOW OAKS and BALD CYPRESS, and native herbaceous plants were planted in the rain gardens.  Many of the trees were planted years ago after the initial construction of the swale and then were kept as part of the rain gardens.  The lower section of the swale was ringed by a very high berm topped with an overflow drain and a rock lined overflow area.  The upper portion of the lower section was designed to be a wetland and was planted with wetland plants native to western Kentucky.  The lower portion of this section is primarily a detention pond with an under drain designed to facilitate drainage of water from the ponding area.  This section has a bridge and a nice path with signage.  Anyone interested the design for a large scale landscape storm water management system which is both very attractive and functional should pay a visit to the Arboretum.

For further information on rain gardens please refer to "Landscape Systems for Managing Storm Water in Southwest Ohio" and "Rain Garden Guidelines for Southwest Ohio" at: [ http://hamilton.osu.edu/landscape-stormwater-management ].

B.  LOCATING RAIN GARDENS AND OTHER 'GREEN' STORM WATER MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS IN SOUTHERN AND NORTHERN OHIO.  Are you interested in visiting locations with rain gardens or green roofs in the northern or southern Ohio areas?  If so, you can easily find their locations in southern Ohio by going to [ http://www.plantplaces.com ] (click on "View Map of Plants" in the "What can you do on Plantplaces.com?" section), which is a site maintained by Steve Foltz, Horticulture Director, Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden.  This site also contains a wonderful array of photos and other information on a very wide variety of plants found and recommended for southern Ohio.  For northern Ohio, go to [ http://www.raingardeninitiative.org/ ], which is the site of the Toledo-Lucas County Rain Garden Initiative.  This site also has much other information on green storm water management systems, including educational programs.

4.  CLINIC CLIPS.  This week at the CWEPPDC we have diagnosed Verticillium wilt in a yellowwood, Marssonina leaf spot on poplar, Rhizosphaera needle cast on spruce, and seasonal leaf drop on white pine in the landscape.  Phomopsis twig blight was diagnosed on juniper seedlings in a nursery.  A greenhouse chrysanthemum sample had both Pythium and Rhizoctonia isolated from the root system.

Calls and samples of spiders have been crawling into the Clinic this week including jumping spiders, nursery web spiders, and wolf spiders.  These are all considered to be outdoor spiders which get inside by accident and can be escorted back outside.  The red legged dysderid spider specializes in eating pillbugs and is often found in basements and along the wall of structures where their prey is most likely to be found.  None of these spiders are likely to bite and are not considered to be dangerous.  Calls and samples regarding yellow jackets and honey bees in structures continue to buzz the phone line also.

5.  BUGBYTES.

A.  SPRUCE SPIDER MITES ARISE.  Barb Bloetscher reported that Dave Shetlar has been finding active spruce spider mites (Oligonychus ununguis) on their namesake host in central Ohio.  Landscapers and nurserymen should start monitoring now for this potentially damaging mite; the game's afoot!  The mite spends the summer and winter months in the egg stage.  As temperatures cool in the fall, or warm in the spring, the eggs hatch making this a "cool-season" mite.  Typically, fall generations are more damaging than the spring generations owing to a more extended feeding period.  Unfortunately, fall feeding symptoms do not become evident until next season.

Spruce spider mite plant hosts include spruce, arborvitae, juniper, hemlock, pine, Douglas-fir, true firs, and sometimes other conifers.  The mites feed by rupturing individual cells of the host's foliage, producing characteristic tiny yellow spots, or "stippling."  As the stippling coalesces, foliage becomes bleached and eventually bronze-colored.  Inner foliage is generally affected first.

A "beating tray" is the most effective tool for discovering and assessing spruce spider mite populations.  This tool can be a purchased piece of equipment, or simply a stick and an 8.5 x 11" tablet of white paper.  Hold the white target beneath the conifer foliage and strike the foliage several times with a stick or rod causing the mites to drop onto the target.  Next, tilt and lightly tap the collection paper or tray to allow plant debris to fall off.

Look closely for small, slow-moving dots, not much bigger than the period at the end of this sentence.  These are the spider mites.  The faster moving dots are likely to be predaceous mites; the good guys that feed on the spider mites.  A finger can be used to "mash and smear" the mites to further distinguish the good mites from the bad.  Greenish-brown streaks are "pate de spider mite."

Effective management efforts include washing (syringing) mites from the foliage using a heavy stream of water, applications of soaps and oils, or applications of traditional miticides.  Syringing will conserve predaceous mites, but may be difficult on large trees or large numbers of trees.  Soaps and oils are also kind to predators, but oils will wash away the blue color on Colorado blue spruce.  Certain miticides such as spiromesifen (e.g. Judo), hexythiazox (e.g. Hexygon, Savey), and bifenzate (e.g. Floramite), as well as a few others, have low impacts on beneficials.

B.  MULTICOLORED ASIAN LADY BEETLE HOME INVASIONS.  The multicolored Asian lady beetle's (Harmonia axyridis) habit of invading homes in the fall seriously challenges this insect's "beneficial" status.  This introduced predator tends to congregate on homes and other buildings in the fall and with little inducement, the aggregations may move inside.  Although populations of this notorious home invader have been on the decline over the past few years, several BYGLers reported they have already seen a few beetles gathering around structures, presumably planning a little breaking and entering.

The best way to deal with these home invaders is to prevent them from gaining entry in the first place.  Find and seal-off entry points such as cracks around windows, doors, or utility pipes.  Poorly attached home siding and rips in window screens provide an open invitation.  Check homes for unprotected vents, such as bathroom and kitchen vents, or unscreened attic vents.  Also, while in the attic, look for openings around soffits.  The beetles often crawl up outside walls and gain entry into homes by crawling around loss fitting soffits.

Once inside the home, the best method to manage these invaders is to "Hooverize'em."  Smashing the beetles by swatting them could cause more damage than leaving them alone since fluids inside their bodies can leave permanent stains on the surface.  Also, the beetles have foul smelling blood, which is part of their defense armament, and smashing the beetles will perfume rooms with eua de beetle.  Thus, the vacuum cleaner is the preferred method for giving the invader the bums rush.  However, make certain the vacuum cleaner is a "by-pass" type, meaning refuse is not passed through an impeller.  Otherwise, you will create a horrifyingly odoriferous bug-blender (see "eua de beetle" above).

C.  CEDAR BEETLES MATING.  Dave Shetlar reported receiving a sample of several cedar beetles (Sandalus niger).  The males of the cedar beetle have large lamellate (plate-like) antennae.  In addition to the lamellate antennae, males can be black in color but are usually have reddish-brown front wings and antennae and are about 1/2" in length.  Females are black in color, about 3/4" in length and have pectinate (comb-like) antennae.  This beetle can be observed on ash, linden, maple, oak and many other species.

The extraordinary characteristic of this beetle is that the immature beetles (grubs=larvae) are parasites of cicada nymphs.  Apparently, the adult beetles when they emerge will be found on any species of tree or shrub under which cicada nymphs may be feeding on the roots of the above ground plants.  Another interesting fact about the cedar beetle is it was studied closely and reported upon in The Annals of the Entomological Society of America: Volume 34, Number 2, 1941, pp. 458-466 from a population that was discovered on The Ohio State University campus in Columbus, Ohio.  One of the amazing characteristics of the cedar beetle reported in the publication is that one female laid more than 16,000 eggs while she was held in captivity.

6.  DISEASE DIGEST.

A.  THE TWISTED STORY OF ROSE ROSETTE DISEASE.  John Hartman (Professor Emeritus, UK Dept. of Plant Pathology) lead participants in this week's 12th Annual Buckeye-Bluegrass BYGLive! in a fascinating discussion on rose rosette disease (RRD).  The BYGLive! was held at The Arboretum, State Botanical Garden of Kentucky, on the University of Kentucky campus in Lexington, KY.  The Arboretum has an extensive rose collection that includes more than 2,000 varieties, and John pointed out RRD symptoms on a number of rose plants in the collection.

RDD is caused by a phytoplasm that is spread by the ROSE LEAF CURL MITE (Phyllocoptes fructiplilus), an eriophyid mite that inhabits the shoot tips and leaf petal bases of roses.  The mite alone causes little damage; however, the phytoplasm it carries produces a range of symptoms that usually appear late in the growing season.  Infected plants produce succulent bright red shoots covered in stunted, twisted stems and leaves.  The leaves may also appear red, chlorotic, or a combination of both symptoms and the shoots may be covered by an abnormally high number of thorns.  The twisted growth may be mistaken for damage caused by a plant growth-regulator herbicide such as 2, 4-D.

RDD was first reported in 1941 on multiflora rose Manitoba, Canada, Wyoming, northeastern California, and Nebraska.  The disease is lethal to multiflora rose and it was originally thought that the pathogen was specific to this non-native noxious weed.  However, it has become clear in the intervening years that RDD also infects cultivated roses.

John noted that once plants become infected, all parts of the plants are infectious.  Pruners used on infected plants can spread the pathogen to non-infected plants.  There are no pesticides available that will control the disease, so management focuses on removing the pathogen by removing infected plants.  Entire plants, including the roots, should be removed and destroyed.  While the pathogen does not survive in the soil, it will survive in roots.  John indicated that if possible, rose growers should focus their attention on eliminating nearby multiflora rose plants since the plants can serve as reservoirs for this disease.

7.  TURF TIPS.

A.  TUNE UP YOUR LAWNMOWER IN FALL.  Yes, your eyes are perfectly fine!  Fall is also a great time for tuning up lawnmower.  Joe Boggs reminded BYGLers that air filter should be replaced and sparks plugs need to be gapped so that the mower will run efficiently, not wasting fuel or polluting air.  Lawn experts typically say that "spring is time to maintain the lawn, fall is the time to grow the lawn."  With cooler air temperatures and warm soil temperatures, and abundant moisture, lawns across most parts of the state are growing well, thus requiring frequent mowing.  It is also a good idea to either replace the mower blade or have the blade sharpened and balanced.  Dave Dyke commented that "lawns in southern Ohio have been growing like crazy all year!"  He is definitely tired of lawn mowing, especially when Gary Gao mentioned the need for watering newly seeded area in Central Ohio.  Lawns in Northwest Ohio have recovered somewhat from the recent rain events, after a long period of drought.

When mowing the lawn, it is important to remember the 1/3 rule.  Never remove more than one third of the grass blade at one mowing.  It is also important to either shred tree leaves with a lawnmower or rake up the leaves so that the leaves will not smother the lawns.  Mulching leaves is better since shredded leaves help improve soil structure and add nutrients to the lawn.  It is also very beneficial to fertilize the lawn around late October to early November to promote deep root formation.  Deep roots will help lawns better cope environmental stresses next year.

B.  BROADLEAF WEED CONTROL REMINDER.  BYGLer Joe Rimelspach, reminds us for fall applications of herbicides, be sure the weather will be frost free for 2 days before and after application.  As long as temperatures are above 45 F, herbicides can be very effectively absorbed by plants as they prepare for dormancy.  Frosted plants will not absorb the herbicides overly well, and it takes a couple of days for plants to recover, even from a light frost.

8.  INDUSTRY INSIGHTS.

A.  HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE BUCKEYE-BLUEGRASS BYGLIVE!  Joe Boggs and Dave Dyke provided highlights from the 12th Annual Buckeye-Bluegrass BYGLive! held this past Monday at The Arboretum, State Botanical Garden of Kentucky, on the University of Kentucky campus in Lexington, KY.  At the top of their list was recognition for the program's host, Larry Hanks (Pampered Properties, Lexington, KY).  Both agreed that the program's success was directly related to Larry's planning and dedication to providing a truly memorable educational experience.  Kudos to Larry!

In the morning, participants enjoyed a combination diagnostic walk-about / storm water management overview on the "The Walk Across Kentucky" trail which progresses through seven simulated regional landscapes representing different geographical areas in the state.  Here are a few highlights from the hike:

*Julie Beale (Plant Diagnostician/Research Specialist, University of Kentucky, Department of Plant Pathology) and John Hartman noted that Lexington had an extremely wet growing season this year which has been conducive to the development of a number of plant diseases including APPLE SCAB on crabapple and ROSE BLACK SPOT.  John showed the group an unusual leafspot on mulberry caused by the fungus, Phloeospora multimaculans, that was directly related to the high moisture conditions experienced this season in Lexington.  The leaf spot appears as distinct grayish spots bounded by purplish-black margins and the disease is capable of causing significant defoliation.

*BYGLive! participants had an interesting discussion regarding declining petunias in some of the landscape beds.  BYGLive! participants assumed the problem was Phytophthora spp. root rot based on yearly challenges with this pathogen on petunias in southwest Ohio; however, Julie and John noted that they have also been seeing a significant amount of dieback on petunias caused by Rhizoctonia spp.  It is important to make a correct diagnosis because Phytophthora is a water mold (Oomycete) while Rhizoctonia is a fungus.  The two groups of pathogens require different pesticides for their control.

Of course, John and Julie also invoked the "power of the triangle;" the Disease Triangle.  The three sides of the Triangle are:  Host Plant, Pathogen, and Environment.  The power behind the Triangle is recognizing that a disease can develop only when you have a plant pathogen present at the same time that you have a susceptible host and environmental conditions that will support disease development.  If you remove any one of these three conditions, a plant disease will not develop.  In the case of the petunias, the diseases caused by both pathogens are heavily influenced by poor drainage; the Environmental side of the triangle.

*The power of the Disease Triangle was also highlighted when the group visited the rose garden.  The garden includes over 2,000 rose varieties.  The roses had been sprayed weekly with fungicides aimed at controlling rose black spot.  However, John pointed out that wet environmental conditions were so conducive to infection by the black spot fungus (Diplocarpon rosae) that black spot symptoms appeared on some of the more susceptible rose varieties despite the extensive spray program to suppress the pathogen.

These observations illustrate another important point with using the Disease Triangle.  John and Julie both stressed that landscape managers should never focus their entire attention on managing a plant disease by only using one side of the Triangle.  Effective disease management programs should utilize all sides of the triangle.  In this case, the environmental conditions could not be changed; however, host susceptibility played a significant role in whether or not black spot appeared on the plants.

*John noted that BACTERIAL LEAF SCORCH continues to be a problem in central Kentucky; particularly on oaks.  The causal agent is a xylem inhabiting bacterium (Xylella fastidiosa) that is thought to be transmitted from tree to tree by xylem-feeding insects such as leafhoppers (e.g. sharpshooter leafhoppers) and treehoppers (e.g. oak treehopper).  However, since the disease spreads slowly from tree to tree, it is speculated that the insects are not very efficient vectors of the disease.  The hallmark leaf-scorching and leaf drop symptomology of this disease typically occurs in late summer to early fall.  Participants were treated to a dramatic display of the disease symptoms on a large oak located in a home landscaping next to the Arboretum.

John noted that the pathogen has been found to infect a wide range of plants; however, research has indicated that infection on other plants may be produced by different strains of the bacterium.  The host range relative to bacterial strains continues to be investigated.

In the afternoon, the group was treated to enlightening research updates provided by Dan Potter (UK Dept. of Entomology) and his graduate students.  It was very evident that a lot is happening at the University of Kentucky!

Here is a brief snapshot of results reported and new research being pursued by Dan and his graduate students:

*Dan reported on soon-to-be-published research on Japanese beetle (Popillia japonica) and European elm flea weevil (Orchestes alni) host preferences on American elm hybrids.  Dan noted that they found significant differences among the newly developed elms which could be an important consideration in the reintroduction of American elms into U.S. landscapes.

*Jonathan Larsin (M.S. candidate) is conducting research on the ecotoxicology of the insecticide chlorantraniliprole (e.g. Acelepryn).  The insecticide represents a new class of pesticide chemistry.  The chemical binds to one of the receptors (the ryanodine receptor) that regulates the movement of calcium during muscle contractions and locks the calcium channel in a partially opened state.  This results in an uncontrolled release of calcium and the subsequent disruption of muscle contractions.  As Dan described it, the insect "dies of the cramps."  Thus far, chlorantraniliprole has shown very low toxicity to non-arthropods; however, Jonathan's research is aimed at learning whether or not toxicity levels are low across all turf-inhabiting arthropods as well as other organisms such as earthworms. 

*Carl Redmond (Ph.D. candidate) is conducting research to illuminate the white grub complex that is occurring in Kentucky as well as the predators and parasitoids that may be helpful in suppressing grub populations.  He has already learned that MASKED CHAFERS account for around 85% of the white grubs found in the state.

*Andrea Bixby (Ph.D. candidate) is working with an NPV (virus) specific to black cutworms to learn whether the virus can provide continual reduction of caterpillar populations with a single inoculation of golf course tees and greens.  Thus far, her research has indicated that spray preparations produced by mixing ground-up infected caterpillars with water produced infections on caterpillars in the field; however, efficacy declined in around 2 to 3 days.  She speculated the virus may be succumbing to U.V. light exposure or it is getting washed through the soil profile.

*Sara Vanek (M.S. candidate) is pursuing two lines of research on two "soft scales":  the OAK LECANIUM SCALE (Parthenolecanium quercifex); and the MAGNOLIA SCALE (Neolecanium cornuparvum).  The first research pursuit focuses on host plant resistance, and the second focuses on the impact that ants of on predators and parasitoids of the soft scales.  It is known that ants will defend soft scales in exchange for their honeydew; however, the impact of removing the protectors is not well documented.  Sara's research has already shown significant results with magnolia scale.  When ants were excluded using simple, inexpensive sticky bands on tree trunks, she documented a 55% reduction in the magnolia scale population during the first season and a 68% reduction the second season.  Her research could provide an effective means to manage magnolia scale where canopy spray applications are problematic.

9.  COMING ATTRACTIONS.

A.  2009 FALL CERTIFIED ARBORIST PREPARATION COURSE.  The OSU Extension Agricultural Business Enhancement (ABE) Center, Ohio Department of Natural Resources Division of Forestry and Ohio Chapter International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) are partnering to present the next Certified Arborist Preparation Course to be held October 15 through December 3, 2009 at the ABE Center in Bowling Green, Ohio.

This 7-week course is designed to provide a comprehensive education on arboriculture as well as prepare individuals for the ISA Certified Arborist Exam. Classes will meet Thursday evenings from 6:30 p.m.-9:00 p.m.

Course topics include:  Tree Biology; Pruning; Soil & Water Relations/Fertilization; Diagnosis & Treatment; Tree Selection, Installation, & Establishment; Safe Work Practices, Lightning Protection, Cabling/Bracing and Knots & Ropes; and Risk Management & Urban Forestry Basics.  Each class will also have a Tree ID component.

Registration fee is $175.  Registration fee includes the programs and a copy of the ISA Arborists' Certification Study Guide.  The fee does NOT include the certification exam.  Seating is limited to 25 people; preference will be in order of postmarked registrations. For Registration form go to the following web site: [ http://www.ohiochapterisa.org/LinkClick.aspx?fileticket=SY%2f3ZIjU1zs%3d&tabid=36 ].

B.  TREE SEMINARS: OCTOBER 21, 2009.  Dr. Joe McBride, University of California, Berkeley, keynote speaker for the "Why Trees Matter Forum," Thursday, October 22nd, at the OARDC in Wooster, will also make two additional presentations on Wednesday, October 21st.  We invite you to attend the following sessions:

The first of the two additional presentations is scheduled for Wednesday, October 21st at 10:00 a.m. in Kottman Hall at OSU in Columbus with the School of Environment and Natural Resources. Dr. McBride's topic will be:

"Reconstruction of the urban forests following warfare in the second half of the 20th century" - a report on research conducted in cities destroyed by a bombing in World War II and the Bosnian War, comparison of pre-war urban forest conditions, extent of bombing damage, planning for post-war reconstruction, and problems to be overcome in the replanting of these cities.  There are lessons learned from this study that will be applicable to the reconstruction of urban forests following natural disasters and well as future wars.

For additional location information, please contact Kathy Smith at [ This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it ].

A second meeting with the Urban Landscape and Ecology Program has been scheduled for Wednesday, October 21, 2009 at 3:30 p.m. in Wooster.  Meeting location is Fisher Auditorium, Room 121 and the topic for this presentation is:

"Factors influencing urban forest diversity in cities around the world" - a discussion of the relative importance of "nature vs. culture" in the development of the world's urban forest.  

For additional location information and details on the Why Trees Matter Forum on October 22, in which Dr. McBride will speak on "How Trees Matter for Children," contact Lisa Troyer at [ This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it ].

C.  WHY TREES MATTER CAPGIN MEETING:  OCTOBER 28, 2009.  Jim Chatfield of OSU Extension's Why Trees Matter Signature Program will be speaking to the Cincinnati Area Professional Green Infrastructure Network on Wednesday, October 28 from 3-5 p.m. His topic will be "Why Trees Matter For Rain Gardens."  For more information, contact Dave Dyke or Joe Boggs of OSU Extension in Hamilton County at 513-946-8989.

Background:  Trees are important components of rain gardens due to their high potential for storm water remediation. For example, using data developed from the U.S. Forest Service’s i-Tree models, a 36" white oak growing in front of a single residence home in one of the Cincinnati-area zip codes (45201): 

"Your 36" White oak will intercept 11,623 gallons of storm water runoff this year… The annual economic value of this environmental service is estimated at $72.08 for this tree, a significant part of the overall $167 of benefits provided by this tree…" 

The specific siting for a tree of course may mean that the stormwater remediation and overall benefits may differ (more so or less so), but it is important to consider how these stormwater remediation benefits accrue. From the treebenefits.com website:

"Urban stormwater runoff (or "non-point source pollution") washes chemicals (oil, gasoline, salts, etc.) and litter from surfaces such as roadways and parking lots into streams, wetlands, rivers and oceans.  The more impervious the surface (e.g., concrete, asphalt, rooftops), the more quickly pollutants are washed into our community waterways.  Drinking water, aquatic life and the health of our entire ecosystem can be adversely affected by this process.

Trees act as mini-reservoirs, controlling runoff at the source. Trees reduce runoff by:

*Intercepting and holding rain on leaves, branches and bark

*Increasing infiltration and storage of rainwater through the tree's root system

*Reducing soil erosion by slowing rainfall before it strikes the soil" 

The meeting will be in the Harold C. Schott Education Center at the Zoo. You will enter the Zoo at the Erkenbrecker Ave. gate between Vine St. and Dury Ave.  The Zoo has changed over to its new entrance on Vine Street.  Folks that come to the CAPGIN meeting will have to go in the Vine street entrance (the new parking lot) and as they go across the bridge they will have to present a meeting notice to the turnstile folks to get in free.  Also as they exit the Zoo parking lot they need to submit the meeting notice again to get free parking.

CAPGIN is sponsored by the following:  Metropolitan Sewer District of Greater Cincinnati (MSDGC), OSU Extension - Hamilton County, Hamilton County Storm Water District, Hamilton County Soil and Water Conservation District, and the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden.

NOTE:  CAPGIN normally meets from 3:00-5:00 p.m. the last Wednesday of each month at the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden.  However, due to the holidays, there will be no meetings in November or December.  For more information please contact Dave Dyke at [ This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it ], Joe Boggs at [ This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it ], Julie Crook at [ This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it ], or go to: [ http://hamilton.osu.edu/landscape-stormwater-management ].

D.  WHY TREES MATTER FORUM.  Registration is now open for the 4th annual "Why Trees Matter Forum."    This year's forum will be held in Wooster at Fisher Auditorium on Thursday, October 22nd. 

We are excited to welcome Joe R. McBride, University of California, Berkeley as our keynote speaker.  Dr. McBride is Professor of Urban Forestry in the Department of Landscape Architecture, University of California, Berkeley.  His research in urban forestry has focused on the reduction of air pollution by trees in urban areas, the relationship between urban forest characteristics and the characteristics of the biomes in which cities occur, history of the reconstruction of urban forests following bombing during World War II, the transition of natural forests to urban forests in California, and tree selection for California in the face of global climate change.  McBride is a member of the Society of American Foresters and International Society of Arboriculture.  His presentation for the forum is titled, "Trees Do Matter" and will focus on the importance of the urban forest to children.

John Lloyd of Rainbow Tree Care will also join us to talk about the Urban Forestry Institute, Minnetonka, MN and its connection to Ohio State University.

For a copy of the registration flier which features a full list of speakers and events for the forum please visit our website at: [ http://treesmatter.osu.edu ] or contact Lynn Vogel at: [ This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it ].

E.  DATES SET FOR COMMERCIAL APPLICATOR RECERTIFICATION CONFERENCES.  The following dates have been set for recertification conferences this winter.  Mark your calendars now!

• January 13, 2010, Dayton Convention Center, Dayton
• February 17, 2010, Kalahari Conference Center, Sandusky
• March 3, 2010, John S. Knight Center, Akron
• March 9, 2010, Columbus Convention Center, Columbus

10.  BYGLOSOPHY:  "Bittersweet October.  The mellow, messy, leaf-kicking, perfect pause between the opposing miseries of summer and winter." - Carol Bishop Hipps