What are Thrips? Thrips are tiny, slender insects belonging to the order Thysanoptera. They are commonly found in various habitats, including trees, shrubs, flowers, and crops. Thrips are known for their piercing-sucking mouthparts, which they use to feed on plant sap. These insects can cause significant damage to trees and other plants, making them a … Read more
What is Verticillium Wilt? Verticillium wilt is a fungal disease caused by the soilborne pathogens Verticillium dahliae and Verticillium albo-atrum. These pathogens infect a wide range of plants, including trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants. The disease is characterized by the wilting and yellowing of leaves, stunted growth, and eventually death of the plant. Verticillium wilt … Read more
What is Pine Needle Scale? Pine Needle Scale, scientifically known as Chionaspis pinifoliae, is a type of insect that belongs to the family Diaspididae. These tiny pests are commonly found on pine trees, where they feed on the sap of the needles. They are named “scale insects” due to their protective waxy covering that resembles … Read more
What is Bacterial Soft Rot? Bacterial Soft Rot is a common and destructive disease caused by various species of bacteria that infect a wide range of plants, including trees. The bacteria responsible for this disease are typically opportunistic pathogens that enter plants through wounds or natural openings, such as stomata. Once inside the plant tissue, … Read more
What is Mildew? Mildew is a type of fungus that can grow on various surfaces, including trees. It appears as a powdery or fuzzy white or gray substance and thrives in damp, humid conditions. Mildew can spread quickly and cause damage to trees if left untreated. What causes Mildew in trees? Mildew in trees is … Read more
I. What is Phytophthora Root Rot? Phytophthora root rot is a devastating plant disease caused by various species of the Phytophthora genus. This pathogen primarily affects the roots of plants, leading to rotting and decay. Phytophthora root rot is a common problem in agricultural crops, ornamental plants, and trees, causing significant economic losses worldwide. II. … Read more
What is Lethal Yellowing? Lethal Yellowing is a devastating plant disease that affects various species of palm trees, particularly coconut palms. It is caused by a phytoplasma, which is a type of bacteria that infects the phloem tissue of the palm tree. This disease is characterized by the yellowing and eventual death of the palm … Read more
What is Botryosphaeria Canker? Botryosphaeria Canker is a fungal disease caused by various species of the Botryosphaeria fungus. This disease primarily affects woody plants, including trees and shrubs, by infecting and damaging their bark and cambium layer. Botryosphaeria Canker is a common problem in orchards, vineyards, and forests, where it can cause significant economic losses … Read more
What is Sudden Oak Death? Sudden Oak Death (SOD) is a devastating disease caused by the pathogen Phytophthora ramorum, a water mold that infects a variety of plant species, including oak trees. First identified in California in the mid-1990s, SOD has since spread to other parts of the United States and Europe, posing a significant … Read more
What is Swiss Needle Cast? Swiss Needle Cast is a fungal disease that affects Douglas-fir trees. The fungus responsible for this disease is Phaeocryptopus gaeumannii. This disease is primarily found in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States and in British Columbia, Canada. It is named after the Swiss researcher who first identified it … Read more