Leaf Fold Gall Midge Thickened edges of oak leaves are caused by abnormal tissue growth stimulated by chemicals produced by the leaf fold gall midge (Figure 1). These growths contain small fly maggots that feed and develop within the galls…

Whenever pests of landscape plants in the eastern U.S. are rated, bagworms invariably land in the top ten. Bagworms are most commonly found on evergreens (Figure 1), but they will feed on deciduous hosts, too. Bagworm feeding should be about…

Lace bugs use their sucking mouthparts to feed on plant sap. Damage ranges from a few scattered tiny white-to-yellow spots to bleached-white leaves that drop prematurely. Common lace bug species in Kentucky feed on azalea (azalea lace bug); hawthorn, cotoneaster,…

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…

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…

Colonies of fall webworm caterpillars work together to encase terminal foliage of over 100 species of forest trees, shade trees, and shrubs in silk (Figure 1). Then, they feed together in this shelter for 4 to 5 weeks, expanding it…