THE ARBOR DOCTOR

Very dry conditions continue, and little or no rain is forecast over the next two weeks.  Furthermore, after a nice cool down this week, we will return to nasty levels of heat next week.

I have noticed many people are not doing much watering.  I can understand that this is one way to save money in a down economy.  However, as Tony Sands, a TV weatherman in the 70’s, commonly said, “when you dance, you have to pay the fiddler.”

Proper watering does not mean running up huge water bills.  After the 2007 drought and heat wave, we saw thousands of dollars in tree losses and increased insect and disease activity which continue to this day.  Strategic watering can be the difference between life and death for plants, trees, and shrubs. 

For more information, as well as rain gauges and sprinklers, click here>>>

Recent drought impact reports from near Cincinnati.  Click on the county for the reports:

Hamilton County, OH

Boone County, KY

Ripley County, Indiana

Dearborn County, Indiana

It is important to remember as dry or drought conditions persist to water landscape plants correctly and measure water you are applying.  Read more>>>

Fall webworms are becoming visible in landscapes.  This pest usually eats leaves late in the season and the nests are generally concentrated to limited areas. Because of this, little real damage is done to most trees. However, the nests can look very unsightly and multiple generations in long summers can lead to significant defoliation.   Read more>>>

A recent sample sent by Arbor Doctor to the C. Wayne Ellett Plant and Pest Diagnostic Clinic tested positive for Verticilium Wilt disease.  Verticillium wilt is a common and destructive disease of shade and ornamental trees.  In all, more than 300 plant species have been reported susceptible.  Read more>>>

The weekly update from Ohio State, the Buckeye Yard and Garden Line, stated that “many on this week’s call have been on the receiving end of recent rains.”  That may be, but from my observation it missed much of the Cincinnati metro area. 

In the past week, I have measured only 0.10 inches of rainfall with plentiful 90 degree temperatures, topping out at 99, and rapid drying rates.  The forecast is bleak with more oppressive heat in the forecast next week and little or no rain.

Lawns are turning brown and new trees and transplants may not survive without water.  This is the time which could mean life or death for new trees and shrubs in particular.  Most plant warranties are voided if the plants are not watered properly.

For watering information, sprinklers, and rain gauges, click here>>>.

Remember to water, and stay cool.

From “Deep Roots of Landscape Trees, a comprehensive guide to current research and practice”:

Because mild symptoms of deep roots are only reduced vigor or slow decline, trees that were planted many years ago can have deep roots. There are limits to what can be done without doing more harm than good. A root collar excavation may be the only option.

Read more about Established Trees.

For more information, check out what Arbor Doctor does about deep planted trees here>>>

If you would like more information, please contact us>>>

From “Deep Roots of Landscape Trees, a comprehensive guide to current research and practice”:

Planting the root ball too deep will result in deep roots. The sooner the mistake is identified, the more options are available.

Read more about Trees Recently Planted too Deep.

If you would like trees which are planted correctly, or trees checked which were recently planted, contact us at Arbor Doctor!

From “Deep Roots of Landscape Trees, a comprehensive guide to current research and practice”:

Trees may arrive from the nursery with roots to deep in the root ball. If there is just a few inches of soil over the roots, the best option may be to adjust the planting method, rather than reject the tree.

Following proper planting techniques can avoid planting the roots too deep, and pay benefits for a lifetime.

Read more about Proper Planting.

If you would like trees which are planted correctly, or trees checked which were recently planted, contact us at Arbor Doctor!

Bagwormsare common landscape pests because they feed on many of the most common ornamental plant species.  They are are usually found on conifers such as arborvitae, spruce, juniper.  Bagworms are detected and controlled by Arbor Doctor’s plant health care program.   Read more>>>

Two spotted spider mites have begun to show up on burning bush.  These mites are a significant pest in that they proliferate rapidly and can defoliate the plants. 

Two spotted spider mites also tend to be resistant to miticides.  One good control is to simply hose off the foliage once per week with a strong spray of water, being certain to spray the undersides of the leaves.  The planting I first saw the spider mites on had recently been pruned.  I have noticed over the years that recently pruned shrubs seem more susceptible to mites, possibly because mites enjoy hot, dry conditions which may be enhanced by increased sun.

In summary:

• be conservative in pruning burning bush in summer
• hose off foliage once per week, including the undersides of the leaves
• call Arbor Doctor if you notice discoloration of foliage

One planting of burning bush had a couple dead branches.  Closer examination of this plant showed scale insects which we are also able to treat.  Correct diagnosis is necessary for proper treatment.