Autumn will soon arrive in Kentucky, and it is one of the best times to plant new trees. Cool-season planting allows trees to “focus” on root system development. Woody plants may take as long as 3 to 5 years to…

“Wet feet” is the common term for a condition that affects plant species intolerant of wet growing conditions. This problem occurs when soils become saturated in water, which ultimately causes roots to suffocate. Once root damage occurs, plants decline and…

Volutella blight is the most common disease of boxwood in the landscape. Volutella blight is caused by an opportunistic fungal pathogen that attacks leaves and stems of damaged or stressed plants.  Winter injury, poor vigor, and wounds increase risk for…

Kentucky’s landscapes are populated by many trees that are susceptible to bacterial leaf scorch. This disease may not kill trees instantly, but over time, it can have devastating effects. Pruning and reducing stress can prolong the life of infected trees;…

Water is an essential component to plant mass and is vital to growth, carbohydrate production, and nutrient transport. During periods of below-average rainfall or when rain distribution is uneven, plant health may decline (Figure 1). Drought conditions or inadequate water…

Last week, some distressing news was delivered regarding spotted lanternfly, a worrisome invasive species. Unfortunately, an infestation of this pest was found in Southeastern Indiana, specifically near the city of Vevay in Switzerland County. The location is about 2.4 miles…

Woody trees and shrubs may exhibit decline resulting from the stresses that can occur during their lives. Stress may be the result of improper plant or site selection, incorrect planting or maintenance practices, or poor soil conditions. Injury from equipment,…

Wood decay leads to loss of tree vigor and vitality, resulting in decline, dieback, and structural failure. Wounds play an important part in this process since they are the primary point of entry for wood decay pathogens. While other factors…

Rose rosette is a devastating viral disease that is a threat to roses, including rose cultivars known for their exceptional disease resistance and cold hardiness. Symptoms can vary greatly, depending upon cultivar, plant age, and growing conditions.  Symptoms are often…

Dogwood is a popular landscape tree throughout Kentucky. However, once infected with powdery mildew, trees can develop an unattractive appearance. The disease is most prevalent during periods of high humidity and in landscapes with reduced air circulation. Some cultivars are…

Blue spruce and Norway spruce are popular landscape plants in Kentucky. However, many factors can cause spruce trees to cast (shed) needles. Casting may be the result of environmental stresses (heavy soil, poor drainage) or fungal diseases. In Kentucky, Rhizosphaera…

While the calendar says we haven’t even left spring yet (summer starts on June 20), we have already received our first fall webworm inquiry of the year. Even though their name implies that they would most enjoy the months of…

The stress of hot, dry conditions in midsummer can prompt leaf scorch in many landscape trees. However, extensive canopy dieback or tree collapse, particularly on one side of a tree, may indicate Verticillium wilt disease.  Numerous cases of this vascular…

Boxwoods usually have to contend with insect issues like boxwood leafminer or boxwood psyllid. In recent years, we have had concerns arise over boxwood blight, also impacting Kentucky boxwood plants. Now, it seems like a new invasive is on the…