Texas Root Rot – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Tree Diseases and Pests Glossary

What is Texas Root Rot? Texas Root Rot, also known as cotton root rot, is a fungal disease caused by the pathogen Phymatotrichopsis omnivora. This disease primarily affects plants in the southwestern United States, particularly in Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona. Texas Root Rot is a soil-borne disease that attacks the roots of a wide … Read more

Heterobasidion Root Disease – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Tree Diseases and Pests Glossary

What is Heterobasidion Root Disease? Heterobasidion Root Disease, also known as annosum root rot, is a fungal disease that affects coniferous trees, particularly spruce and pine species. The disease is caused by the fungus Heterobasidion annosum, which infects the roots of trees through wounds or root contacts with infected trees. Once the fungus enters the … Read more

Root Collar Weevil – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Tree Diseases and Pests Glossary

What is a Root Collar Weevil? Root collar weevils, also known as root collar beetles, are a type of insect that can cause significant damage to trees. These weevils belong to the family Curculionidae and are commonly found in forests and wooded areas. They are small beetles with elongated bodies and a distinct snout, which … Read more

Aphids – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Tree Diseases and Pests Glossary

What are aphids? Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that belong to the order Hemiptera. They are commonly found on trees, plants, and other vegetation. Aphids are known for their ability to reproduce rapidly, with females capable of giving birth to live young without mating. These pests feed on the sap of plants by piercing the … Read more

Japanese Beetle – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Tree Diseases and Pests Glossary

What is a Japanese Beetle? The Japanese beetle (Popillia japonica) is a destructive insect that is native to Japan. It was first discovered in the United States in 1916 and has since become a major pest in many parts of the country. Japanese beetles are known for their metallic green bodies and copper-colored wings, making … Read more

Bronze Birch Borer – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Tree Diseases and Pests Glossary

What is the Bronze Birch Borer? The Bronze Birch Borer (Agrilus anxius) is a type of wood-boring beetle that primarily targets birch trees. These beetles are native to North America and are known for their destructive feeding habits. Adult Bronze Birch Borers are metallic bronze in color and measure around half an inch in length. … Read more

Pitch Canker – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Tree Diseases and Pests Glossary

What is Pitch Canker? Pitch canker is a disease caused by the fungus Fusarium circinatum that affects various species of pine trees. The fungus infects the tree through wounds or natural openings, such as resin canals, and disrupts the flow of water and nutrients within the tree. This can lead to wilting, dieback, and ultimately … Read more

Septoria Leaf Spot – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Tree Diseases and Pests Glossary

What is Septoria Leaf Spot? Septoria leaf spot is a common fungal disease that affects a wide variety of plants, including vegetables, ornamentals, and trees. It is caused by the fungus Septoria lycopersici and is most commonly found on tomato plants, but can also affect other plants such as peppers, potatoes, and eggplants. The disease … Read more

Southern Blight – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Tree Diseases and Pests Glossary

I. What is Southern Blight? Southern Blight, also known as Southern Stem Rot, is a plant disease caused by the fungus Sclerotium rolfsii. This fungus is a soil-borne pathogen that affects a wide range of plants, including vegetables, ornamentals, and field crops. Southern Blight is most commonly found in warm, humid climates and can be … Read more

Spotted Lanternfly – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Tree Diseases and Pests Glossary

What is the Spotted Lanternfly? The Spotted Lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula) is an invasive insect native to Asia that has become a significant pest in the United States. It was first discovered in Pennsylvania in 2014 and has since spread to several other states, including New Jersey, Delaware, Virginia, and Maryland. The adult Spotted Lanternfly is … Read more