I. What is Silver Leaf Disease? Silver Leaf Disease, also known as Silver Leaf Fungus, is a fungal disease that affects a variety of trees, including fruit trees such as cherry, plum, and apple trees. The disease is caused by the fungus Chondrostereum purpureum, which infects the tree through wounds or pruning cuts. Once infected, … Read more
What is Chestnut Blight? Chestnut blight is a devastating fungal disease that primarily affects chestnut trees, specifically American chestnut trees (Castanea dentata). The disease is caused by the fungus Cryphonectria parasitica, which was accidentally introduced to North America in the early 20th century. Chestnut blight has had a significant impact on the American chestnut population, … Read more
What are Mealybugs? Mealybugs are small, soft-bodied insects that belong to the family Pseudococcidae. They are commonly found on trees, shrubs, and other plants in both indoor and outdoor environments. Mealybugs are known for their white, powdery appearance, which is caused by a waxy substance that covers their bodies. They feed on plant sap by … Read more
What are galls? Galls are abnormal growths that form on various parts of trees, including leaves, stems, branches, and roots. These growths are typically caused by the tree’s response to an irritant, such as an insect, mite, fungus, or bacteria. Galls can vary in size, shape, and color, depending on the type of irritant and … Read more
What is a Pine Beetle? A pine beetle, also known as a bark beetle, is a type of insect that primarily attacks pine trees. There are several species of pine beetles, with the most common being the mountain pine beetle and the southern pine beetle. These beetles are small, dark-colored insects that bore into the … Read more
I. What is Cottony Cushion Scale? Cottony cushion scale, also known as Icerya purchasi, is a type of scale insect that feeds on the sap of plants. These insects are named for the fluffy white cotton-like substance they produce to protect themselves and their eggs. Cottony cushion scale insects are typically found on the stems, … Read more
What is Yellowing? Yellowing in trees refers to the process in which the leaves or needles of a tree turn yellow instead of their normal green color. This discoloration can be a sign of various underlying issues affecting the tree’s health and vitality. Yellowing can occur in both deciduous trees, which lose their leaves in … Read more
I. What is Stigmina Needle Cast? Stigmina needle cast is a fungal disease that affects coniferous trees, particularly spruce and pine trees. The fungus responsible for this disease is Stigmina lautii, which infects the needles of the tree, causing them to turn brown and fall off prematurely. Stigmina needle cast can weaken the tree over … Read more
What are Bark Beetles? Bark beetles are a type of small insect that belong to the Scolytinae subfamily of beetles. These beetles are known for their ability to infest and damage trees by burrowing into the bark and feeding on the inner layers of the tree. There are many different species of bark beetles, each … Read more
What is Needle Cast? Needle cast is a common fungal disease that affects coniferous trees, causing the needles to turn brown, die, and eventually fall off. This can weaken the tree and make it more susceptible to other diseases and pests. Needle cast is caused by various species of fungi that infect the needles of … Read more