What is Weir’s Cushion Scale? Weir’s Cushion Scale, also known as Hemiberlesia rapax, is a type of scale insect that feeds on the sap of trees and shrubs. It is a common pest in many parts of the world, including North America, Europe, and Asia. Weir’s Cushion Scale is named after the entomologist J. R. … Read more
What is Bacterial Canker? Bacterial canker is a plant disease caused by various species of bacteria that infect a wide range of plant species, including trees, shrubs, and crops. The bacteria responsible for causing canker are typically from the genera Pseudomonas, Xanthomonas, and Erwinia. These bacteria enter the plant through wounds or natural openings, such … Read more
What is the Balsam Woolly Adelgid? The Balsam Woolly Adelgid (Adelges piceae) is a tiny insect that is native to Europe and was first discovered in the United States in the early 20th century. It is a pest that primarily attacks fir trees, specifically balsam fir (Abies balsamea), but can also infest other species of … Read more
What is Fire Blight? Fire blight is a bacterial disease that affects a variety of trees and shrubs, most commonly pear and apple trees. The disease is caused by the bacterium Erwinia amylovora, which infects the plant through wounds or natural openings such as flowers or leaf scars. Once infected, the bacterium rapidly multiplies and … Read more
I. What are Scale Insects? Scale insects are small, sap-sucking insects that belong to the superfamily Coccoidea. They are named for their scale-like appearance, which is due to the waxy or armored coverings that protect their bodies. These covers can vary in color and texture, ranging from white and cottony to brown and hard. Scale … Read more
What is a whitefly? Whiteflies are small, winged insects that belong to the Aleyrodidae family. They are commonly found in gardens and agricultural settings, where they feed on the sap of plants. Whiteflies are named for their white, powdery wings, which are covered in a waxy substance. There are over 1,500 species of whiteflies worldwide, … Read more
What is Citrus Canker? Citrus canker is a plant disease caused by the bacterium Xanthomonas citri subsp. citri. This disease affects citrus trees, including oranges, lemons, limes, and grapefruits, causing lesions on the leaves, stems, and fruit. Citrus canker is highly contagious and can spread rapidly through a citrus orchard, leading to significant economic losses … Read more
What is Seiridium Canker? Seiridium Canker is a fungal disease caused by the pathogen Seiridium cardinale. This disease primarily affects coniferous trees, such as cypress, juniper, and pine trees. Seiridium Canker is characterized by the formation of cankers on the branches and trunks of infected trees. These cankers can disrupt the flow of nutrients and … Read more
What are Woolly Aphids? Woolly aphids, also known as woolly apple aphids or woolly apple scales, are small insects that belong to the Aphididae family. They are named for the white, woolly wax they secrete, which covers their bodies and protects them from predators and environmental conditions. These pests are commonly found on apple trees, … Read more
What is Collar Rot? Collar rot is a common fungal disease that affects trees, particularly fruit trees and ornamental trees. It is caused by various species of fungi that infect the base of the tree trunk, also known as the collar or root crown. Collar rot can weaken the tree, leading to stunted growth, dieback, … Read more