Diagnosing abiotic (non-living) problems in plants can be challenging due to the many interacting factors and varying levels of plant tolerance. In many cases, reviewing the recent weather history of a given area provides valuable insight into the possible causes of observed symptoms. Over the past few weeks, several samples submitted to the Purdue Plant…Read more about Delayed and Sporadic Budbreak in 2025: Could Spring Weather Be to Blame?[Read More]
Resources for landscapes and gardens in the Midwest
Landscape Report
maple
These three maples have somewhat similar-looking leaves. On the surface, you may think this is simply an academic exercise. But if you care about invasive plants and local ecology, this distinction is an important one. Norway maple is an invasive tree species, while sugar and black maples are native tree species (sometimes called hard maples)….Read more about Distinguishing Between Norway, Sugar, and Black Maples[Read More]
Hypoxylon canker is a common disease of mature hardwood trees both in landscapes and in natural wooded areas. The disease, caused by the wood decay fungus Biscogniauxia (formerly Hypoxylon), is most frequently observed in oak tree species, but can also cause dieback in pecan, hickory, golden rain tree, sycamore, maple, beech, birch, elm, willow, basswood,…Read more about Hypoxylon Canker of Hardwoods[Read More]
Recently a homeowner in Hamilton County posted on the Indiana Native Plant Society Facebook page with concerns about aphids, mites, and apple scab in her maple and oak trees. She asked for a second opinion and treatment options for these pests. I reached out to the homeowner and requested permission to collect samples from the…Read more about Case Study: Maple tree pests in the landscape[Read More]
The past two months have been relatively wet and cool to warm. This prolonged period of overcast conditions, high humidity, and light to moderate rainfall is perfect for some of our foliar disease issues. “April flowers bring May Leaf spots” doesn’t have the right ring to it, but we are seeing quite a bit of…Read more about Leaf Curl and Leaf Blister Brought By Wet Weather[Read More]
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