This is the first half of a two part series on Japanese maple. The following examines the tree's developmental traits, distribution and habitat, longevity, height, leaves, twigs, flowers, fruit, seed…
Gall diseases are common on many trees and shrubs. Galls are abnormal swelling growths that form on the leaves, twigs, branches, roots, and flowers of plants. There are myriad gall…
Introduction Galls are abnormal swelling growths that occur on the leaves, twigs, branches, roots, and flowers of plants. A gall's characteristics are determined by its causal organism. They vary in…
Introduction Cedar-apple rust is a fungal infection that commonly affects junipers, apples, and crabapples. It is caused by a pathogen called Gymonosporangium juniperi-virginianae. Cedar-apple rust requires two hosts to complete…
Introduction Canker diseases are symptomatic of an injury associated with a plant that has become infected by a fungal or bacterial pathogen. Canker diseases frequently kill branches, and cause extensive…
Introduction Chestnut blight, also called chestnut bark disease, is a fungal infection that has significantly reduced the chestnut population in North America. The fungus is spread by wind-borne ascospores and…
Introduction During spring and summer, trees can be impacted by a number of heat related disorders. The following examines the effects of those wrought by severe storms, including flooding, water…
Introduction: Sooty mold is a collective term applied to several species of dark fungi. The fungi grow on honeydew excreted by insects, or exudates from leaves of certain plants. Sooty…
Climate shifts and extreme temperatures present a slew of environmental challenges for trees. The following examines two of the most common heat related disorders, and recommended practices for mitigating their…
Introduction: Diplodia tip blight, also known as Sphaeropsis tip blight, is a common fungal disease caused by two species of Diplodia: Diplodia pinea and Diplodia scrobiculata. Diplodia pinea is the…