Erineum mite damage on home garden grape leaves: “Blisters” on the top; corresponding concave areas on reverse filled white fuzzy material (enlarged leaf hairs). (J.R. Natter; 2016-04)
Blister mites are running wild this season. It seems that the perfect conditions combined for population explosions of these tiny, elongated mites which noticeably disfigure the leaves of grapes, pears, walnuts, and more. Among pears, even newly planted trees are victims. The symptoms are similar on all three genera but the specific causal agents – also referred to as eriophyid mites or simply eriophyids – vary.
Blister or eriophyid mites reside on the undersides of the leaves, injecting fluids into the leaf tissue as they feed. Those fluids cause the blistering on the top surface with the associated white “fuzz” (enlarged plant hairs) in the concave areas on the reverse. (So, no, it’s not fungal growth.)
Blister mites are far different than the more common spider mites. Adults are microscopic, light in color, cylindrical, tapered at the posterior end, with two pairs of short legs just behind the head. Nymphs are the same but are smaller.
Microscopic image of an erineum mite, Aceria species, elongated, 2 pair legs, size about approximately 1/100-inch. (https://utahpests.usu.edu/uppdl/files-ou/factsheet/eriophyid-mites2010.pdf)
Grape Erineum Mites (Colomerus vitis) are microscopic, wormlike, with 2 short pairs of legs at the head end, and white-yellow in color. They overwinter between the outer bud scales and bud tissue and feed on leaves during spring and summer. Feeding from the undersides of the leaves produces a blistered appearance on the top of the leaves. At the same time, the corresponding depressions on the underside are filled with enlarged light-colored leaf hairs which shelter the mites from natural enemies and pesticides. In spite of how extensive and nasty-looking the infestation is, blister mites seldom affect grape health or production.
As the season progresses, the enlarged leaf hairs progress from white to yellow and, finally, brown. Then, from mid-August until leaf drop, the mites return to their overwintering sites beneath the bud scales.
Home management for grape erineum mites: Sprays aren’t needed. “Dormant-season oils and insecticides used for other pests and sulfur applications for powdery mildew usually control this pest.”
Pear Leaf Blister Mites (Eriophyes pyri) feeding causes reddish to yellowish green blisters on the top surface of the leaves, often in 2 lengthwise rows, one at each side of the main vein. With time, the blisters turn brown or black. Leaves may drop prematurely. Loss of excess foliage weakens trees, reduces shoot growth, and interferes with fruit maturation and fruit bud formation. Feeding on fruit causes irregular, russeted spots which feel rough and somewhat scaly. PNW Insect says “Eriophyid mites move from tree to tree, perhaps by wind or carried on birds or insects.”
Home Management for Pear Leaf Blister Mites: Lime sulfur applications in the fall can significantly reduce populations of these mites the following year. (The trick, though is to obtain it in small home-use packaging.) Applications before bud swell can also be effective. Or apply superior oil as buds begin to swell.
Walnut Blister Mites (Aceria erineus)
Just as do the previous two mites, walnut blister mites overwinter beneath bud scales. When springtime temperatures rise, the mites feed among the leaf hairs on the undersides of the leaves. Several generations occur during the summer, which attack new foliage as soon as it unfurls.
Home Management ofWalnut Blister Mites: Naturally-occurring predator mites almost always keep mites under control if broad-spectrum insecticide applications are avoided. Heavy rain and cold weather also suppress mite numbers.
Broadleaf weeds like mallow, bindweed, white clover, and knotweed enhance mite numbers. Avoid excessive nitrogen applications, as this encourages mites.
Horticultural oil is the only spray suggested for home-use.
We might think we are nurturing our garden, but of course it’s our garden that is really nurturing us. – Jenny Uglow
July and August bring a profusion of fun and rewarding volunteer opportunities for Master Gardeners. Phone hotlines, county and state fairs, farmer’s markets, the Oregon Zoo, Blue Lake Park, Cracked Pots Recycled Art Show and more! How do you learn about those great gigs? Log-in to CERVIS to see new listings and recent openings as schedules change (don’t be discouraged if you find a full schedule – check back as openings always pop up).
The MG hotlines have been hopping with lots of intriguing questions. Sign-up to learn alongside your fellow MGs while answering client questions. We have an increased need for volunteers in July at all 3 offices. Please look at the schedule on CERVIS and consider signing up for a shift. Special request: Both the Clackamas and Washington Co. offices need volunteers the first week in July. Can you help out? That would be grand!
Pie Eating Contest! Largest Watermelon! Longest Bean!
Master Gardeners! Oh my!
If you want a big dose of summer fun, sign-up for the MG Clinic table at one of the county fairs or, the ‘granddaddy of them all’, the Oregon State Fair.
Give sage (OSU proven) garden advice to fair visitors and take a bit of time, before and after your shift, to grab some shaved ice and check out the fair competitions whether it is honey products, the largest homegrown fruits and veggies, or the best home brew or chocolate layer cake! You get free-entry into the fair the day you volunteer!
Clackamas County Fair
Although only a few volunteer slots remain for the ever-popular Clackamas County Fair – grab a remaining slot or be sure to check back closer to the date (August 14 – 18th) as inevitably slots will open up. Sign-up on CERVIS
Capturing a carrot! Photo courtesy of Anna Stubbs
Washington County Fair
Sign-ups for this stellar community event just opened – so sign-up today for best selection! Enjoy the fair (July 26th – 29th) hosting guests at the Washington County Master Gardener’s beautiful Demonstration Garden. Sign-up for “Tours and Clinics” to guide visitors in the garden and answer their gardening questions at an MG Clinic table. Or sign-up to serve in the “Kids Zone” sharing the wonder of the garden with children – assisting them on a scavenger hunt and earning the supreme prize, of “capturing” a carrot from the garden. Sign-up on CERVIS
Oregon State Fair, September 1-2. For the ultimate fair experience, take a quick jaunt to Salem for the Oregon State Fair. Master Gardeners from around the state host the OSU Extension Master Gardener Clinic. Our Metro-area MG program does the honors on Friday and Saturday, August 31st and September 1st. Don’t miss this festive state celebration! Sign-up on CERVIS
Log Your Hours
Thank you for your passion, energy and volunteer service educating the gardening public. We want to be sure to have a record of all your efforts. Here is the link you need, to download the form, to log your volunteer hours. All hours due by October 1, 2018.
2017 MG Advisory Meeting. Photo courtesy of Eddie Rosen
Master Gardener Advisory Meeting July 25th: You’re Invited!
10:00am – 12:00pm at the Food Innovation Center (1207 NW Naito Parkway, Suite 154, Portland). A light lunch will be provided following the meeting! Parking is free. RSVP required.
Please join the conversation at a metro-wide Master Gardener advisory meeting to provide feedback and suggestions for the OSU Master Gardener program staff. We value and appreciate your input as we look to the future.
RSVP to marcia.mcintyre@oregonstate.eduno later than Monday, July 16thto confirm your participation. Space limited to 50 participants.
Goal: Gain insight and inspiration from MGs about the Master Gardener program and our public outreach service.
Save the Date! Saturday, November 10th – FALL RECERTIFICATION!
Gail Langellotto will be presenting ‘The Science of Ecological Gardening’ at the 2018 Fall Recertification
Our annual Master Gardener Fall Recertification Training is scheduled for Saturday, November 10th, 8:00am to 3:30pm, at Portland Community College – Rock Creek Campus. This annual event is a daylong continuing education opportunity. Earn 6 hours of continuing education/recertification credit by attending.
A great line-up of speakers is forming. We are thrilled to announce that OSU’s Andony Melathopoulos, Gail Langellotto and Heather Stoven will be part of our line-up of guest presenters.
2018 Master Gardener Trainees to Receive OSU MG Badges
Robin Greenwood proudly displays her newly awarded OSU MG badge at the 2017 Fall Recertification
Our November 10th, Fall Recertification event also gives us the opportunity to congratulate the new class of Master Gardener interns as they step-up to Veteran status after completing their volunteer requirements.
We will present 2018 Interns with their OSU Extension Service Master Gardener badges and a big shout-out for successfully completing the program. 2018 Interns are cordially invited to attend the full day of training – which will count toward your continuing education/recertification hours for 2019.
European Chafer. Photo: Washington State Unversity
Advanced Training Webinars Continue
Two more informative online Advanced MG Training Webinars from Brooke Edmunds, Oregon State Extension and the OSU Master Gardener Program remain for July and August.
These webinars each count for 1 hour continuing garden education/recertification credit. A wonderful way to expand your gardening knowledge in the comfort of your own home or sitting in a lovely garden watching on the electronic device of your choice.
Can’t make the webinar date? No worries! A recording of each webinar is posted a few days after the live webinar. See the link below.
In fond remembrance… It is with deep sadness that we share the loss of a valued and dear, OSU Extension Service Master Gardener. Ann Dueltgen passed away on May 22nd, 2018. Since completing her training in 1999, Ann was dedicated in her service as a Master Gardener. Ann served alongside, her husband, Bob Dueltgen (training class of 1998).
Bob shared with us that being Master Gardeners was part of their retirement plan. What a generous plan it was! Throughout the years you could find Ann and Bob serving their community at Farmer’s Markets (Hollywood was a favorite), garden shows, the Portland Nursery Apple Tasting and the Oregon State Fair.
Ann and Bob combined their volunteer service with the Master Wildlife Stewards program working with area schools, educating students via the creation of wildlife habitats. Ann and Bob also initiated a partnership with Marysville School and the Multnomah Master Gardener’s Community Demonstration Garden where students learned about composting for the garden. As Master Gardeners fondly remember Ann, the resounding memory was of her kind heart, and how welcoming and encouraging she was to all she met. We will miss Ann and are grateful for her two decades of generous service. On behalf of the OSU Master Gardeners, we extend our sincere sympathies to Bob and his family.
What is happening to so many Willamette Valley Trees? Have you noticed diseased and dying trees as you navigate around the Metro-area and Willamette Valley? Or have you needed to answer clients concerns about the dead and dying trees they observe?
Here are two great, “Tree Topic” blog posts from Brad Withrow-Robinson, Forestry & Natural Resources Extension Agent for Benton, Linn and Polk Counties. Brad shares his thoughts and insight on what he sees happening.
Another Rough Year for Willamette Valley TreesPart 1 and Part 2
By Margaret Bayne, OSU Extension Staff-retired, OSU Master Gardener
July/August 2018
Should I tie or braid the daffodil leaves after the daffodils are done blooming?The answer is…NO! Not only is it a waste of time, it isn’t good for next year’s flowers. Learn more about daffodil care. (Richard Jauron, Willy Klein, Iowa State Extension) https://bit.ly/2LEr6c2
Moms are the best(in the insect world)! “Insects are exceptionally skilled at developing adaptations to increase their evolutionary success. One way to promote a species’ survival is through effective parenting, and in some standout insect species mothers go the extra mile for their young.” (Adrienne Antonsen, Entomologytoday.org) https://bit.ly/2s6Dv1g
Home and garden use of treated wood.” Selecting the correct type of treated wood can reduce risks to people and the environment. Some preservatives can leach into soil or water and be taken up by plants. Touching treated wood may also leave residues on the skin. Consider that some treated wood may protect against both mold and insects, and some may only protect against molds.” (npic.orst.edu) https://bit.ly/2zmUGOG
Travel deep inside of a leaf in this cool video! Life Science Academy via Garden Professors/Facebook https://bit.ly/2JqBR5q
Pollution is changing the mycorrhizal fungi that provide mineral nutrients to the roots of European trees. This could explain malnutrition trends in Europe’s trees. (Imperial College London via sciencedaily.com) https://bit.ly/2JqCfko
Aphid. Photo: OSU
How do insects, like aphids survive on a high sugary diet? “There’s a reason parents tell their kids to lay off the sugar: too much isn’t good for you. But small sap-sucking insects called aphids can survive quite nicely on a largely sugar-based diet, despite their inability to make important nutrients from scratch. The key to their success is symbiotic bacteria, which live inside aphid cells and make amino acids, the building blocks of proteins needed for growth.” (University of California, Riverside via lab.manager.com) https://bit.ly/2MgkWjs
Is that bug really a bug? Learn about True Bugs. (Michelle Ross, indianaublicmedia.org) https://bit.ly/2sJFZmG
How does Rose of Jericho survive in the harsh climate of the desert? “To survive in a desert, plants must eek out an existence in specific microclimates that provide conditions that are only slightly better than the surrounding landscape. Such is the case for the Rose of Jericho (Anastatica hierochuntica). This tenacious little mustard is found throughout arid regions of the Middle East and the Saharan Desert and it has been made famous the world over for its “resurrection” abilities (Indefenseofplants.com) https://bit.ly/2JturOV
Promising Yellow-jacket bait. Researchers are studying an “…experimental synthetic alternative bait that, to paraphrase an old saying, looks like meat, tastes like meat, and, as far as western yellowjackets (Vespula pensylvanica) are concerned, must be meat. So, they feed on it and bring it back to their nest, along with the pesticide it contains.” (Ed Ricciuiti, Entomologytoday.org) https://bit.ly/2xXpTe7
Galls, Galls, Galls! Learn more about these natural beauties. (Indefenseofplants.com) https://bit.ly/2kXIWeN
Ants provide clues to why biodiversity is higher in the tropics. New global data of invertebrate distributions suggests time holds key to species diversity. (Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University via sciencedaily.com) https://bit.ly/2HyuzGJ
Desert bees have a secret: how to survive a decade of drought. “Bees are most diverse in arid places. Will their strategies hold up in a changing climate — and can we learn enough about them before it’s too late?” (Sara Van Note, Undark.org) https://bit.ly/2sbolXS
Ladybugs, Aphids and the toxic combat that might be happening in your garden. “Aphids are a familiar sight in the garden, sucking the juices out of your rose bushes. Luckily, so are ladybugs, which prey on aphids and keep them in check. But the relationship between predator and prey is more complex than you might think. Aphids may be important to the survival of some ladybug species we have come to know and love by warding off another predator that has been moving in and feasting on them.” (Veronique Greenwood, nytimes.com) https://nyti.ms/2kZ1M5j
Vintage photos of insects and spiders in vivid detail. “In 1913, National Geographic magazine published a series of microscopic images revealing the “monsters in our own backyards.” (Christine Dell’Amore, Nationalgeographic.com) https://bit.ly/2JGNOmz
Stick insects expand territory after being eaten by birds. (Kobe University via phys.org) https://bit.ly/2Jv9vTj
Honey Crisp apple podcast…”This is the story of that miracle apple and the innovation that made the business of better apples sustainable — all while hastening the downfall of the Red Delicious.” (NPR.org) https://n.pr/2IQwigg
Watering newly planted trees and shrubs. Great information! (Kathy Zuzek, University of Minnesota Extension) https://bit.ly/2ifzS27
Bumblebees are confused by iridescent colors. (University of Bristol, via phys.org) https://bit.ly/2LFd6z5
The conclusion of a report from Newcastle University about the removal of neonicotinoid for use in seed treatment of oilseed rape… “Insecticidal control of CSFB in the past has relied on a combination of seed treatment and foliar sprays. The absence of neonicotinoid seed treatments is making CSFB control more challenging for farmers with significant losses of crop identified in the autumn of 2014. The estimated 33,957 kg of a.s. used in the autumn to combat the threat of CSFB represents a 2.5 fold increase in the use of autumn insecticides to WOSR in England and is likely to be a direct result of the ban on neonicotinoid seed dressings. The increased use and reliance on pyrethroids for CSFB control has significant future implications since resistance has now been identified in the UK. The loss of neonicotinoid seed treatments poses a significant challenge to growers at a time when significant price reductions have occurred in the value of this crop, together with an increased threat from the fungal pathogen light leaf spot raising the question for many farmers as to the true value of oilseed rape in the crop rotation.” Read the study: https://bit.ly/2JwanHz
15 Stunning Photos That Prove You Have No Clue How Food Is Grown! (D.G. Sciortino, sweetandsavory.co) https://bit.ly/2GOwNTJ
Container gardening: The rules to know, and the rules to break. (Adrian Higgins, Washingtonpost.com) https://wapo.st/2Jq5nbd
Extrafloral Nectaries and Ants. “Most of us learned in school that flowers produce nectar, which is then collected by bees, butterflies, bats and/or moths. Extrafloral nectaries are structures on a plant that produce nectar, but they are not inside flowers. They may be located on petioles, leaves, sepals, or stems.” (Roberta, blog.wildaboutants.com) https://bit.ly/2l0YcYq
How to tell how much wasp stings will hurt. Short stinging organs tend to carry more-toxic venom — but inflict less pain — than long ones. (Peerj, Toxicology, via nature.com) https://go.nature.com/2LFDCZc
New insights into the evolution of the fig. (Tina, nordicjbotany.org) https://bit.ly/2xTVoWm
Testing shows dry, red sticky traps improve Spotted-Wing Drosophila monitoring. (John P. Roche, Ph.D, entomologytoday.org) https://bit.ly/2JwWZD1
Coddling Moth. Photo: Ken Gray, OSU
Guide to Codling Moth damage identification from WSU. Great info and photos. (Tree Fruit & Extension Center, WSU) https://bit.ly/2JqCGv2
International research team finds ‘staggering’ number of fly species in small patch of tropical forest. (Mark Lowey, University of Calgary, via phys.org) https://bit.ly/2kYIU6z
It’s all about location, location, location. The location of your garden, environment, and even the microclimate in your yard is important to know when selecting plants. (Gardenprofessors.com) https://bit.ly/2Js3aw8
More than a living syringe: Mosquito saliva alone triggers unexpected immune response. (Baylor College of Medicine via Eurekalert.org) https://bit.ly/2sLyuvn
How to protect your local pollinators in ten easy ways. (Ryan P. Smith, smithsonianmag.com) https://bit.ly/2IvhLWW
Battling bubbles: How plants protect themselves from killer fungus. UCR researchers show how plants fight against infections by delivering protective molecules into fungi using bubble-like exosomes. (University of California, Riverside) https://bit.ly/2HBi8tJ
The costs and benefits of pre-plant root manipulation. (gardenprofessors.com) https://bit.ly/2HAZhis
What to do with ornamental grasses in spring. (Mary Hockenberry Meyer, Gail Hudson, University of Minnesota Extension) https://bit.ly/2l0fqp1
In early June the world of leaf and blade and flowers explode and every sunset is different.
– John Steinbeck
As the month of June ushers in summer, opportunities for Master Gardeners to guide and educate are flourishing.
Master Gardener Office Hotlines Hopping
The gardening public is calling, emailing and rolling into the metro-area Master Gardener offices with an intriguing assortment of questions. “What are these white eggs on the underside leaves of my chard plant?”, “How deep do I plant a sweet pepper seedling?”, “I have rust spotting on my pear leaves, should I be worried?”, “Can you recommend a fast-growing plant to serve as a hedge?”
All inquiries bring the opportunities to practice your diagnostic skills, expand your garden knowledge and that of the visiting public. Join the fun researching and collaborating with your fellow MGs while educating others. You will be surprised by the wealth of information you will learn! Sign-up on CERVIS.
MGs at Farmer’s Markets
Join-in amidst the seasonal bustle and bounty at a local-area Farmer’s Market by serving and educating the community at a Master Gardener market clinic table. These are fun events. In addition to answering gardening questions, you can pick-up some fresh-from-the-field produce, dine on sublime food from market vendors, or go home with a gorgeous bouquet of flowers.
Schedule one or two shifts via CERVIS for a great summer volunteer experience. Don’t despair if market schedules appear full. Check back often as schedules change and openings arise throughout the summer. Let a clinic coordinator know you if you are willing to serve as a substitute for last minute cancellations at your favorite market.
Summer Farmer’s Markets Beaverton – Gresham – Hillsdale – King – Lake Oswego – Lents – Milwaukie
Oregon City – Sherwood – Tigard
Doing Good and Hands-on Learning in Demo Gardens
Marvelous things are happening at our metro-area Chapter sponsored Demonstration Gardens. Best garden practices are on display, citizen science is taking place, and fresh nutritious fruits and vegetables are being grown and donated to area food banks. Dig-in! Contact a coordinator for volunteer hours and make a significant difference teaching.
Clackamas County has the following hands-on volunteer opportunities:
Master Gardeners hosting visitors at End of the Oregon Trail Garden – Photo courtesy of Sharon Andrews
End of the Oregon Trail Interpretive Center – Check in to see how you can join the fun tending the garden and (for those interested) hosting school tours. Sharon Andrews 503-577-7493 sharonandrews402@gmail.com
Hopkins Demonstration Forest – Tend native plantscapes – in a beautiful forest setting!
Frank Wille 503-342-6699, franklyna@comcast.net
Grow An Extra Row Volunteers
‘Grow-An-Extra-Row and Learning Garden’ Project at Clackamas Community College – Make a difference growing food for those experiencing food insecurity. Nancy Muir ccmgextrarow@gmail.com 503-789-6970
Ravishing Radish Harvest at Multnomah Demo Garden – Photo courtesy of John Jordan
Multnomah County Master GardenersCommunity Demonstration Garden in Southeast Portland. There is lots to do and lots to learn in the established edible garden and in the newly expanded annex garden that will include edibles, herbs, and ornamentals!
Washington County Fairplex Join in the fun tending this great garden! Bill Klug billklug@frontier.com 503-681-0143
Learning Garden at Jenkins Estate – Lend a hand in this beautiful landscape.
Sandy Japely at sjapely@gmail.com 503-531-8482.
PCC Rock Creek – be part of the exciting beginnings of a fabulous community garden partnership! Sue Ryburn at sueryburn@comcast.net
Beautiful, historic gardens. Consider spending time this summer in a beautiful, garden – dispensing reliable gardening information at the Pittock Mansion or guiding the public on a tour through the beautiful Washington Park International Rose Test Garden. Sign-up for a shift via CERVIS or contact the clinic coordinator.
Cracked Pots Reuse Art Show
Don’t Miss Out! Special Volunteer Events. Special volunteer events arise throughout the season so check postings on CERVIS often and MG program emails. Then you won’t miss out on great volunteer opportunities like MG clinic tables at the Clackamas and Washington County Fairs,Cracked PotsReuse Art Show at McMenamins Edgefield, or assisting at Metro’s Blue Lake Discovery Garden! Yep, we aren’t fooling. Now is a good time to go check CERVIS!
Master Gardener Advisory Meeting July 25th: You’re Invited!
10:00am – 12:00pm at the Food Innovation Center (1207 NW Naito Parkway, Suite 154, Portland). A light lunch provided following the meeting! Parking is free. RSVP required.
Please join the conversation at a metro-wide Master Gardener advisory meeting to provide feedback and suggestions for the OSU Master Gardener program staff. We value and appreciate your input as we look to the future.
Goal: Gain insight and inspiration from MGs about the Master Gardener program and our public outreach service.
Save the Date! Saturday, November 10th FALL RECERTIFICATION!
Andony Melathopoulos, Photo: Oregon State University
Our annual Master Gardener Fall Recertification Training is scheduled for Saturday, November 10th, 8:00am to 3:30pm, at Portland Community College – Rock Creek Campus. This annual event is a daylong continuing education opportunity. Earn 6 hours of continuing education/recertification credit by attending.
A great line-up of speakers is forming. We are thrilled to announce that OSU’s Andony Melathopoulos and Heather Stoven will be part of our line-up of guest presenters. Andony is leading “OSU Extension’s efforts to design, develop, implement and evaluate a state-wide pollinator health program” and Heather is OSU Extension’s Community and Small Farms Horticulturist for Yamhill County. Look for more updates in our July/August newsletter.
Our Fall Recertification also gives us the opportunity to congratulate the new class of Master Gardener interns as they step-up to Veteran status after completing their volunteer requirements. We will present 2018 Interns with their OSU Extension Service Master Gardener badges and a big-shout out for successfully completing the program. 2018 Interns are welcome to attend the full day of training – which will count toward your continuing education/recertification hours for 2019.
Advanced Training Webinars Continue
This summer brings 3 more informative online Advanced Training Webinars from Brooke Edmunds, Oregon State Extension and the OSU Master Gardener Program.
These webinars each count for 1 hour continuing garden education/recertification credit. A wonderful way to expand your gardening knowledge in the comfort of your own home or sitting in a lovely garden watching on the electronic device of your choice.
Can’t make the webinar date? No worries! A recording of each webinar is posted a few days after the live webinar. See the link below.
Pear trees are having a rough time of it this spring. It seems that this year supplied the perfect conditions for rust on pears. So, let’s compare and contrast the two important rust diseases of pears in Oregon. Recall that cedar-apple rust is not an issue in our region.
Seven different Gymnosporangium species cause rusts on members of the rose family in Oregon. For this discussion, let’s differentiate between Pacific Coast Pear Rust (G. libocedri) and Trellis Pear Rust (G. sabinae).
Most rust fungi have two different hosts: the primary host — in this case, pear– on which growth and yield may be severely affected and a secondary host which typically displays subtle effects. With both diseases, pear trees exhibit brilliant orange spores on affected tissues, spores which readily rub off.
Numerous powdery, bright orange spores are present on leaves, twigs, blossoms, and fruits in Pacific Coast Pear Rust, as shown here and in Trellis Pear Rust. (Client image; Lincoln County; 2012-05)
Pacific Coast Pear Rust is a well-established disease in the northwest and, this spring, is on a spree infecting leaves, twigs, blossoms, and newly set fruit. All ages of trees are affected, from venerable specimens to newly planted saplings. Incense cedar is the alternate host.
Trellis rust, aka European Pear Rust, was found in western Oregon in 2016. It’s considered well -established in western Washington, coastal British Columbia and Contra Costa County, CA. Known infections in Oregon are in Benton, Marion, and Clackamas Counties. Junipers are the alternate hosts.
Trellis Pear Rust, also called European Pear Rust, on back surface of leaf. (Client image; Multnomah County; 2017-09)
Differentiating between these two rust diseases of pear relies on careful examination of symptoms on submitted sample(s) and images. Both rusts sport bright orange, powdery spores on pears. A diagnostic symptom for the trellis variety is an “acorn-like” eruption on the backs of leaves later in the season.
Management choices are limited for home gardeners who fear for their fruit crop.
– Sanitation –The common advice to collect and discard affected parts is unlikely to limit rust unless alternate hosts are removed.
– Resistant varieties – Growing resistant varieties is commonly suggested for disease management for backyard trees. In pear rust, both Asian and European kinds are affected. ‘Bartlett’ is usually less affected while ‘Winter Nellis’ is severely affected. Resistant varieties aren’t listed for trellis rust.
The PNW Disease Handbook states “Eliminating either host [primary or secondary] is the only practical cultural control.” For Pacific Coast Rust the PNW says “Remove alternate hosts around the orchard.” (It also states that, spores from the gel on incense cedar can be blown 6 for 10 miles.) The advice is more specific for trellis rust: “Remove all junipers within 1000 feet.”
– No home-use chemicals are listed for either rust. So, the gardener’s next predicament is to locate a company which sprays fruit trees. Clients will need to research local companies that spray landscape trees. (I found that company websites usually offer a link to “contact us” while some list a phone number. You’ve heard it before: Let your fingers do the walking.)
By Margaret Bayne, OSU Extension Staff-retired, OSU Master Gardener
June 2018
Photo credit: Chris Branam OSU
Grow your own strawberries to sweet perfection. (Kym Pokorny, OSU) https://bit.ly/2stKRes
Gut microbes can help insects beat pesticides. “Probiotic products now line store shelves, promising to improve human health by replenishing the gut microbiome, or the collection of bacteria and other microbes that live in the digestive system. Insects have a gut microbiome too, and it not only benefits their general well-being but may also help them adapt to and overcome pesticides.” (Leslie Mertz, Ph.D., Entomology Today) https://bit.ly/2GS8rvy
Moss that removes arsenic from contaminated water so it’s safe to drink discovered. “From plastic-eating bacteria to oil-devouring bacterium, it seems Mother Nature keeps surprising us with new ways to protect the environment. Now, scientists have discovered a type of moss capable of purifying water contaminated with arsenic, making it once again safe for human consumption.” (Iflscience.com) https://bit.ly/2Ifk6Bi
5 things that make you attractive to mosquitoes. “Although there is lots of anecdotal evidence from people about what influences the little critters to bite, from eating garlic to having “sweet” blood, there are some aspects that have been proven by science to genuinely increase your chances.” (Josh Davis, Iflscience) https://bit.ly/29YjSBk
What is it about snowdrops that earns them such a devoted following? Do you have Galanthomania too? (Andy Biefield, The Guardian) https://bit.ly/2jR7dD6
The secret of a long life–“Usually the rule in the animal kingdom is: a lot of progeny means a short life – if you are less fertile, you live longer. However, it seems that social insects – that is, insects that live in societies – can escape this fate.” (Daniel Elsner/Karen Meusemann/Judith Korb UNIVERSITY OF FREIBURG, via eurekalert.org) https://bit.ly/2rC7Tja
Plants get a brace to precisely shed flowers and leaves. “Biologists … have just reported …how plants regulate the detachment process and protect themselves. As shedding is closely associated with a plants’ life cycle, this is a topic of substantial interest to improve crop and fruit production. (Institute for Basic Science, phys.org) https://bit.ly/2KS842u
So you think you have bark beetles. While it is from Florida, it is a very informative video. (Jiri Hulcr, Youtube) https://bit.ly/2KgpGnA
Plant story – 200 year old seeds spring to life. “Against all expectations, seed scientists from Kew’s Millennium Seed Bank at Wakehurst, germinated 200 year old seeds discovered in The National Archives. Some of these have now grown into healthy plants.” (Kew.org) https://bit.ly/2wxfW6p
Blue flowers! “Cool blue hues can help your garden become a calming and tranquil place. Of course, there aren’t many “true blue” flowering plants to be found, but we’ve come up with a few that could help you bring on the blue.” (Gardening Solutions, University of Florida,) https://bit.ly/2HXFOtA
Best practices for container gardening. Andrea Laine, EMGV, Durham Extension Master Gardener) https://bit.ly/2jPJOSn
Photo credit: Joan – Flickr – CC
Grow Kiwi! “If you have a good strong trellis, are a bit of a gambler and have a love of kiwifruit, there’s no reason not to grow your own crop.” (Kym Pokorny, OSU) https://bit.ly/2J6Fwks
10 Ideas to steal from the world’s biggest botanical garden. (Clare Coulson, gardenista.com) https://bit.ly/2rDHiC4
Butterfly wings inspire light-manipulating surface for medical implants. (Vinayak Narasimhan et al, California Institute of Technology, via phs.org) https://bit.ly/2wyJocf
Scientist rediscovers insect lost for 105 years. (Sarah Nightingale, ucrtoday, University of California, Riverside) https://bit.ly/2KgqJE2
Learn how to keep cats out of your garden. (Brooke Edmunds, OSU, via Katu.com) https://bit.ly/2G9BXHV
The gelatinous looking tongues on the seeds of “Dicentra cucullaria, Dutchman’s Breeches, … are the elaiosomes. “They are rich in fatty lipids and proteins and meant for ants. Ants carry the seeds off into the ground, eat the fatty package and then leave the seed planted and ready to sprout when the time comes. This relationship is called myrmecochory. myrmeco=ant, chory=dispersal. Fun fact: Anthropochory is human dispersal of seeds, like when seeds stick to your pant leg. Many different plants, including Wild Ginger, trilliums and other Dicentra species like the more common Bleeding Heart, Dicentra formosa, have this relationship and produce elaiosomes. Ants are gardeners too.” (Humblerootsnursery, Instagram) https://bit.ly/2Kg82Ao
Grassland plants react unexpectedly to high levels of carbon dioxide. (University of Minnesota) https://bit.ly/2wyMey2
Watch the informative video—“Illnesses on the rise from Mosquito, Tick and Flea Bits. Disease from Mosquitoes, Tick and Flea bites have more than tripled in the US from 2004 to 2016.”(Centers for Disease Control.gov) https://bit.ly/2jPTXNC
Ants navigate with the sixth sense. “Researchers…have now made the surprising discovery that the desert ant uses the Earth’s magnetic field as orientation cue during these calibration trips. This ability had been previously unknown for desert ants.” (University of Wurzburg, via eurekalert.org) https://bit.ly/2rAXK6O
A new Spider family tree tries to untangle the Evolution of Webs. “Scientists have fiercely debated the origins of the orb-style web. A new study challenges the idea that all spiders who make this web had a common ancestor.” (Veronique Greenwood, New York Times) https://trib.al/pOrql6Q
Fruit DNA in invasive Flies’ (SWD) guts could help track their dispersal. (Laura Kraft, Entomologytoday.org) https://bit.ly/2rzDd2Q
New apple disease spoils even pasteurized foods. (Krishna Ramanujan, Cornell University) https://bit.ly/2KW5vML
Learn how to make your own Codling Moth traps, from an OSU expert: “You can make your own apple, pear and Asian pear codling moth pheromone traps. Get a 2 liter pop bottle. 3/4 inch up from the base, cut a 2×2 inch square. Add a good jam, like strawberry; mixed with water so it is sticky and place in the bottom of the pop bottle. Place the pop bottle in the upper 1/3 of the fruit tree. Check each night. They tend to be most active in the evening.” (Ross Penhalagen. OSU farm forum, Facebook)
With more than 4,000 cultivars, Hostas are emperors of the shade. (Linda Geist, University of Missouri Extension) https://bit.ly/2IaU3PR
Can Dirt Save the Earth? “Agriculture could pull carbon out of the air and into the soil — but it would mean a whole new way of thinking about how to tend the land.” (Moises Velasquez-Manof, Nytimes.com) https://nyti.ms/2EVBFnF
A passion for purple foliage plants. (Cindy Haynes, Iowa State University Extension) https://bit.ly/2wxtzCx
A Chinese factory is using AI to breed 6 billion cockroaches each year. (Iflscience.com) https://bit.ly/2IyDQmH
Science and Twitter join forces to uncover a globally imperiled plant species of Heuchera. (Schuette S, Folk RA, Cantley JT, Martine CT, via Pensoft Publishers, eurekalert.org) https://bit.ly/2KW895q
Menu/recipe themed gardens. Specialists have made it easy for you! Check out the different types of gardens, from Pizza, Salsa, Tea, French Fries and more! “Juicy, plump red tomatoes. Crisp onions. Aromatic green basil. Fresh-cut lettuce. These sound enticing on the pages of seed catalogs, but many people may feel intimidated by the idea of their own garden and the tilling, weeding and work that comes with it. The key ingredient to a menu/recipe garden? Plant the most-used produce and herbs from your most-used recipes. (Insights, Ohio State University) https://bit.ly/2I9SIJ6
Photo credit: OSU EESC photo archive
THIS MYTH BUSTED!“Sometimes concepts that are spread via social media and web pages that are just too juicy to pass by such as this “Easy at Home Soil Test”: “… Soil, Plant Pest Center tested several acidic soils and several alkaline soils submitted to the center and testing was complete. They followed the directions for this test using vinegar (weak acetic acid) or baking soda (sodium bicarbonate). Each soil was mixed with either vinegar or baking soda + water.
The results were as follows: 1. None of the acidic soils bubbled when baking soda + water was added; 2. Most of the neutral to alkaline soils did not bubble when vinegar was added. There were a few exceptions. Debbie pulled two soils with pH readings of over 8.1. One bubbled vigorously when vinegar was added; the other, also with an 8.1 pH did not bubble. In general, the test did not work as advertised. To be honest, if it had worked, it still would have yielded very little information. If it had worked, it would not have given the degree of alkalinity or acidity.
If you want reliable information about soils, use a professional soils laboratory that’s certified by meeting industry standards”… (Extension Master Gardener, Facebook) https://bit.ly/2rzDnHu
Rip Van Winkle’ plants hide underground for up to 20 years (University of Sussex, via eurekalert.org) https://bit.ly/2KitioX
While not a local list, here are brief descriptions of many Apple, Crabapple, Pear, Plum and Cherry varieties. (Orangepippin.com) https://bit.ly/2cPpiMr
How a common beetle (Rove Beetle) may offer deep insights into evolution. (James Gorman, nytimes.com) https://nyti.ms/2KfFUNX
What you learn when you put smelly socks in front of Mosquitoes. (Rina Shaikh-Lesko, American University-Washington, via NPR) https://bit.ly/2KdY42j
Why do your teeth feel weird after eating spinach? (Laura Geggel, livescience.com) https://bit.ly/2Iz66pm
Beyond the Honey Bee: How pesticides affect solitary, cavity-nesting Bees (Meredith Swett Walker, Entomologytoday.org) https://bit.ly/2J29JRw
Lizards, mice, bats and other vertebrates are important pollinators too. (Fabrizia Ratto et al, via Ecological Society of America & phys.org) https://bit.ly/2KeSxIN
Variegated Tulips: Beauty from a Virus (Olivia Tracy, Master Gardener, Colorado State University via jeffcogardener.blogspot.com) https://bit.ly/2wBAV8a
5 plants and animals utterly confused by climate change. “Global warming is causing spring to arrive early and autumn to come late in many places, and not all species are adapting at the same rate.” (Livia Albeck-Ripka & Brad Plumer, nytimes.com) https://nyti.ms/2rCsSDc
Need help in finding pollinator attracting plants? Use a search engine: Search by zip code and pollinator type and other characteristics. (Rutgers University, protecting bees, Rutgers University) https://bit.ly/2rAcy4Q
Listen to the sick beats of Rhubarb growing in the dark– snap, crackle, produce! (Eric Grundhauser, atlasobscura.com) https://bit.ly/2IfubOP
Let’s be rational about roots- the myth about root pruning. (Linda Chalker-Scott, WSU via gardenprofessors.com) https://bit.ly/2IuSUSz
Summer flower recommendations. (Chris Rusch, OSU Master Gardener, Douglas Co. Oregon, via New Times Review) https://bit.ly/2rD5e9q
Having one eye better than the other may explain ants’ left bias. (University of Bristol via phys.org) https://bit.ly/2IxAMHD
Colorful moth wings date back to the dinosaur era-New fossils reveal the structure of the ancient insects’ light-scattering scales. (Laurel Hamers, sciencenews.org) https://bit.ly/2KRYAEi
How big spiders use nanoscale physics to fly New study reveals the complex strategies crab spiders use to soar on streamers of silk. (Nala Rogers, Insidescience.org) https://bit.ly/2Icc9g1
Online garden tour-a contemporary English garden offers a reflection of the past. Traditional influences and materials create a garden in harmony with its history. (Anne Balogh, gardendesign.com) (Note : Master Gardeners do not endorse any commercial products. Mention of products in this article does not indicate endorsement.) https://bit.ly/2qrmn5x
The merry month of May brings a wide variety of volunteer service and continuing education opportunities for Metro-area Master Gardeners. Both Farmers Markets and Master Gardener hotlines are starting to buzz with lots of activity and questions from the gardening public. There are still openings for a few of the Hands-on Workshops, and many more volunteer opportunities abound with our “partner” community demonstration gardens.
Dig-in as a garden educator volunteer, it’s the season!
Farmer’s Markets are sprouting up around the tri-county area. Master Gardeners are hosting clinic tables at the following markets this month.
Beaverton – Gresham – Hillsdale – King – Lake Oswego
Milwaukie – Oregon City – Sherwood – Tigard
Sign up for a shift on CERVIS or contact the clinic coordinator, Jordis, or Marcia for assistance signing up.
Multnomah Phone Clinic
Master Gardener Hotlines It’s amazing what you can learn educating others and that opportunity is there for all who volunteer at the Master Gardener phone clinics! Research and collaborate with fellow MGs while educating the gardening public. Sign-up on CERVIS or contact a phone coordinator.
Keep an eye out! Special Volunteer Events. Special volunteer events arise throughout the season so be sure to watch for email announcements from MG program staff or postings on CERVIS to snag a slot at one of the many special volunteer opportunities.
All of the OSU Sponsored volunteer activities are available for sign-up on CERVIS, our online volunteer registration system. Look for the “CERVIS volunteer event registration” link on the right side of our main website: http://extension.oregonstate.edu/mg/metro/ .
When logging into CERVIS for the first time, enter your email and click on “Don’t Know password/ Reset password” to get a temporary password.
Please only sign up for events that you know you can attend. If you need to cancel an event, please contact the clinic coordinator for a list of other volunteers interested in a particular activity. It is your responsibility to find a backup!
Remember “Partner” activities and some “Program” activities added at the last minute are not listed on CERVIS. So be sure to keep an eye out for special email and newsletter announcements.
Students at End of the Oregon Trail Garden Photo courtesy of Sharon Andrews
Lending a Hand and Learning at a Demonstration Garden!
Hands-on learning in any of our ‘Partner’ demonstration gardens is rewarding. Each garden offers unique active, relevant, learning opportunities. Contact a coordinator and dig in!
Clackamas County has the following hands-on volunteer opportunities:
End of the Oregon Trail Interpretive Center – Check in to see how you can join the fun! Sharon Andrews 503-577-7493 sharonandrews402@gmail.com
Hopkins Demonstration Forest – Tend native plantscapes – in a beautiful forest setting!
Frank Wille 503-342-6699, franklyna@comcast.net
‘Grow-An-Extra-Row and Learning Garden’ Project at Clackamas Community College –
Help to grow food for those experiencing food insecurity. Nancy Muir ccmgextrarow@gmail.com 503-789-6970
Washington County Fairplex Join in the fun tending this great garden! Bill Klug billklug@frontier.com 503-681-0143
Learning Garden at Jenkins Estate – Lend a hand in this beautiful landscape. Sandy Japely at sjapely@gmail.com 503-531-8482.
PCC Rock Creek – be part of the exciting beginnings of a fabulous community garden partnership! Sue Ryburn at sueryburn@comcast.net
Hands-on Workshops a few slots remain for our 2018 training workshops. Use the links you were sent earlier in the year to sign-up for the workshops. The following workshops still have openings as of the composition of this newsletter.
June 2 – Summer Fruit Tree Care
July 27 – Advanced Vegetable Gardening
A big shout out of thanks to our workshop instructors for their time and inspiration!
Jen Aron
Margaret Bayne
Jane Collier
Monica Maggio
Multnomah Co. MG Propagation Team:
Judy Battles
Gloria Bennett
Sally Campbell
June Davidek
Marilyn Frankel
Linda Goldser
Pete Jacobsen
Heidi Nichols
Washington Co. MG Propagation Team:
Helen Dorbolo
Marian Ewell
Jackie Lindquist
Sally McCulloch
Jim Kronenberg
Ardis Schroeder
Marilynn Turner
Advanced Training Webinars Updates
Photo credit: Aaron Anderson, Oregon State University
There are some great additions to the online Advanced Training Webinar series brought to you by Brooke Edmunds, Oregon State Extension and the OSU Master Gardener Program. These webinars each count for 1 hour continuing garden education/recertification credit. A wonderful way to expand your gardening knowledge in the comfort of your own home or sitting in a lovely garden watching on the electronic device of your choice.
How do I log my volunteer hours?
To maintain an ‘active’ Master Gardener status or to complete your Master Gardener training you need to log your volunteer and education hours on a 2018 Volunteer log sheet and submit them to the MG program office by September 30, 2018.
Does CERVIS track my hours? Yes, CERVIS does track your volunteer hours, BUT you need to transfer those hours onto your Volunteer Log sheet and submit them along with your other volunteer hours. To access your history log into CERVIS and go to “Report Management”, then click “View or Print Volunteer Activity History” and transfer those hours to your log sheet.
What hours do I log?
Interns – log your volunteer hours and the Hands-on workshops that you attended
Veterans – log your volunteer hours and the continuing garden education/recertification hours you attended
Then simply submit all volunteer and education hours to the MG program office by September 30, 2018.
Plant Sale Nirvana! The Clackamas Co. and Multnomah Co. Master Gardeners provide plant sale ‘Nirvana’ for all garden enthusiasts the first weekend in May.
May 5th and 6th the iconic Spring Garden Fair will satisfy anyone’s plant lust! Perennials, annuals, natives, ornamentals, veggie, fruit, herbs, and more! Clackamas County Event Center, Clackamas
May 5th the Incredible Edibles Plant Sale a community celebration for home-grown goodness – organic veggie, fruit and herb starts will get you growing! 1624 NE Hancock Street, Portland
With a little judicious planning you can shop for plants all weekend!
Have you ever been confused about using mulch in your garden or advising clients? Master Gardener Chip Greening made a great presentation to the MG Study Group last month where he laid out the nitty-gritty research on mulch. Chip is kindly sharing his presentation handout outlining what mulch is, how using mulch effects the garden and how to choose the appropriate type of mulch. Check out his ‘Mulch – What, Why and Wherefore’
Did You Hear the Exciting News?
The Clackamas County commissioners voted unanimously to approve plans for a new OSU Extension Education Center! Woo-hoo! This new home for the Master Gardener program will support our outreach and service to the citizens of Clackamas County and beyond! Read all about the exciting news!
New OSU Extension Education Center in Clackamas County
Image courtesy of the Oregon Department of Agriculture
The Oregon Department of Agriculture (ODA) has an extensive website with information about their continuing efforts to eradicate the invasive Japanese beetles (JBs) from Washington County, Oregon, which is expected to require 5 consecutive years of treatment. (Treatments began in 2017..) For a history and overview of the project, including all public updates beginning with March 2017, see ODA’s website at http://www.japanesebeetlepdx.info/.
ODA advises that adult Japanese beetles (JBs) found within the designated treatment area should be disposed of in soapy water. If JB adults are observed outside the treatment area, capture it/them and, then, promptly notify ODA by email at japanesebeetle@oda.state.or.us or phone 1-800-525-0137.
The following is the full text of the most recent Oregon Department of Agriculture update (April 16, 2018) for the ongoing eradication effort of the Japanese beetle in Washington County:
– – – –
The Oregon Department of Agriculture has begun treatment operations of residences in Washington County as part of the second year of Japanese beetle eradication. Oregon Department of Agriculture has contracted General Tree Service to perform the applications of the larvicide. General Tree Service (GTS) worked with ODA during the first year of the project, and has worked with ODA on past eradication projects for Japanese beetle in Oregon in years prior.
The treatment area in Washington County for 2018 is approximately 2000 acres containing an estimated 6500 residences. As of Friday, April 13, ODA and GTS had treated 2,049 properties for Japanese beetle. Four application crews consisting of one ODA team lead and two General Tree Service applicators and staff meet each morning at 7:30am to prepare the day’s plans. Treatment begins at around 8:15 am when the ODA team member visits each home to inform the resident of the treatment, inspects the property for hazards or areas to avoid application, and flags the property to let the crew know it’s ok to treat. Residents are notified about treatment schedules the week before.
– JB life cycle – Adult Japanese beetles are active only during a brief window during the summer months but are capable to doing considerable damage to numerous ornamentals. Credit: Lifecycle illustration by Oregon Department of Agriculture, Thomas Shahan
There have been some delays due to weather, but mostly treatment has been able to be completed as scheduled. This is due in large part to the hard work being done by the seemingly tireless application crews and crew leads who are working long days, rain or shine, to make sure treatment is correctly and done on time. Operations are expected to continue until mid-May, with some applications planned in Douglas County and at the Portland International Airport.
Support from resident in the area has been very positive. Before treatment, we’d received over 5,000 responses from residents allowing ODA and their staff to treat the properties, including 30 Home Owners Associations allowing treatment in common areas. Tualatin Hills Parks and Recreation Department and the Beaverton School District are also supporting the project and allowing treatment to parks and school fields. Applicator crews have said that residents in the area are expressing their support for the project, with many “Thank yous” and “Get those beetles!”
Containment will begin ramping up soon, with the yard debris quarantine still in effect and expanding in 2018. Residences will receive electronic notices from Oregon Department of Agriculture this week, along with other communications planned throughout the summer.
– Chris Hedstrom, Japanese Beetle Project Coordinator
(Click the link below for PDF containing the above text and all the images.)
By Margaret Bayne, OSU Extension Staff-retired, OSU Master Gardener
May 2018
Residential beekeeping: Best-practice guidelines for nuisance-free beekeeping in Oregon. This publication outlines guidelines for best practices for beekeeping in residential areas. It outlines the steps residential beekeepers can take to operate their bees in nuisance-free manner. (Andony Melathopoulos, Ralph (Mike) Rodia, Jen Holt, & Ramesh R. Sagili, OSU) https://bit.ly/2IIvkOy
Photo credit: Barb Fick
Give the garden a facelift with 6 shrubs sporting dramatic foliage. “It’s easy to grab the pretty flowers staring back at you from the nursery shelves but try straying from the usual and plant vibrant shrubs to spice up the garden.” (Amy Jo Detweiler, OSU; via Kym Pokorny, OSU) https://bit.ly/2qltUmv
Got aphids in your greenhouse? “As a biological control strategy, banker plants offer a novel non-chemical approach to managing commonly encountered pests in the greenhouse.” (Edward Ricciuti, Entomologytoday.org) https://bit.ly/2GNEjgJ
California Bumblebee decline linked to feral honeybees. “…honeybees frequently out-compete native pollinators such as for food and nesting sites.” (Indefenseofplants.com) https://bit.ly/2HpHAEa
Plant a Geiger counter in your garden. “…Tradescantia, also known as Spiderwort…has special sensitivities: the tri-petal flowers open and close based on the weather and light levels; when it is really hot the flowers close, but on an overcast or rainy day, they seem to glow. But the most exciting Tradescantia trick is that it will change flower colors when exposed to low levels of radiation, among other pollutants.” (Lisa Burke, Secretsciencegeek.com) https://bit.ly/2Hpa2Gm
The Gardens of Alcatraz. ”The very name conjures up visions of famous inmates like Al “Scarface” Capone and recalls well-cited facts, such as: “Nobody successfully escaped.” But for all we know about Alcatraz, few people realize that many of its prisoners were also gardeners. (Katie Nanton, nuvomagazine.com) https://bit.ly/2IK5dXJ
In defense of Wasps. “Despite their poor public image, wasps are incredibly important for the world’s economy and ecosystems. Without them, the planet would be pest-ridden to biblical proportions, with much reduced biodiversity”. (Seirian Sumner, iflscience.com) https://bit.ly/2qmbp17
Train yourself to observe tree problems. Download this free informative publication. “A correct diagnosis of the problem is the important first step in trying to manage an unhealthy tree. This publication contains guidelines for identifying tree problems. It will help you examine your tree systematically, collect important background information, and find expert assistance, when necessary.” (Lina Rodriguez Salamanca & Laura Jesse Iles, Plant & Insect Diagnostic Clinic, Iowa State University Extension) https://bit.ly/2IHVCjP
Move over, Beetles: The new champions of diversity are Parasitic Wasps. “Parasitoid wasps that lay eggs in other creatures may represent more species than any other group of animals.” (Nala Rogers, Insidescience.org) https://bit.ly/2Dl0dFO
Photo credit: Tiffany Woods
Stick a thermometer in the soil before planting vegetables. “With a thermometer, no guess work is needed. Soil temperature is the best indicator of when to plant each type of vegetable, no matter what climate zone you live in.” (Jim Meyers, OSU; via Kym Pokorny, OSU) https://bit.ly/2GN5xnP
Brushing plants for height control. “Theoretically, plants release a small amount of the plant hormone ethylene when they are touched or moved (by people, the wind, etc.). With repeated and frequent plant movement, plants release enough ethylene to inhibit elongation.” (Erik Runckle, gpnmag.com) https://bit.ly/2v69kvb
Growing unusual veggies encourages kids to garden! Learn about such fun veggies as Bush Hog Cucumber and Mashed Potato Squash. (Melody Parker, wcfcourier.com) https://bit.ly/2HbCsWK
Three great how-to videos: “Apple Tree Pruning Made Easy.” (U of Minnesota Extension, youtube.com)
Part 1: https://bit.ly/2GO5w71
Cockroaches’ DNA reveals why they thrive in filthy places. “By identifying which genes are key to the bugs’ survival, scientists hope to find ways to better control them.” (Ian Sample, theguardian.com) https://bit.ly/2JCvzfh
Crazy plant ladies through the ages: Women Naturalists, Botanists, and Horticulturists who made history (Gardentherapy.ca blog) https://bit.ly/2Ghh4yy
One Orchid…two colors. “It’s inflorescence is made up of a dense cluster of flowers. Unlike what we are used to with most flowering plants, the flowers of the elder-flowered orchid come in two distinct color morphs – purple and yellow. They are so drastically different that one could be excused for thinking they were two different species. What’s more, the different color morphs co-occur throughout the species’ range. What could be causing this dimorphism? The answer lies in the flowers themselves.” (Indefeseofplants.com) https://bit.ly/2qoEb0b
Earwigs take origami to extremes to fold their wings: “The insects’ springy wing joints are inspiring robotics design.”(Laurel Hamers, Sciencenews.org) https://bit.ly/2IF68bN
All-star spring flowers for your garden. The best flowering bulbs and perennials for early- to late-spring color: Hellebores, Snowdrops, Daffodils and Tulips. (Anne Balogh, Gardendesign.com) https://bit.ly/2qpf79g
Bizarre, parasitic ‘Fairy Lantern’ reappears in the rainforest after 151 Years! “A strange plant that needs no sunlight and sucks on underground fungi for nutrients has turned up in Borneo, Malaysia, 151 years after it was first documented.” (Rafi Letzter, livescience.com) https://bit.ly/2IbDI9F
Making the most out of your soil test. What does soil pH mean for your garden? (Rebecca Finneran & Mary Wilson, Michigan State University Extension) https://bit.ly/2JAn9F7
How to divide perennials. (Richard Jauron, & Willy Klein, Iowa State Extension) https://bit.ly/2GjmNBw
Why leaves don’t leave. “Deciduous trees typically lose all of their leaves by late autumn. But a stroll through the Arboretum reveals a scattering of deciduous trees and shrubs that still have leaves (albeit dry and brown) clinging tightly to branches. These plants are exhibiting marcescence, the trait of retaining plant parts after they are dead and dry.” (Nancy Rose, ARBlog, Harvard University) https://bit.ly/2IHWIfr
The world’s largest mining operation is run by fungi. “If you sift the mineral particles from conifer forest soil, wash them, and examine them under a microscope, you will discover a startling detail: tiny tunnels.” (Jennifer Frazer, Scientificamerican.com) https://bit.ly/2IH7OkW
Photo credit: Pam Zaklan
Practice the good neighbor policy in the garden: Try companion planting. (Pam Zaklan, OSU MG; via Kym Pokorny, OSU) https://bit.ly/2H8SWPc
Royal Jelly-pH and viscosity.“Scientists are still learning some basic information about honey bees, Apis mellifera. In a recent paper, the pH of royal jelly was determined to be the deciding factor for keeping the substance viscous. Honey bee larvae develop into queen bees if they are fed large quantities of a food called royal jelly. But royal jelly does more than determine whether a larva becomes a queen. It also keeps her safely anchored to the roof of the queen cell in which she develops.” (Julia Kurtz via The Garden Professors Blog, Facebook)
Tree care workers need better training to handle dangers on the job. “…study calls attention to post-storm hazards posed to tree care workers and provides safety recommendations.” By Patti Verbanas, Rutgerstoday) https://bit.ly/2qjSp3m
Is sex necessary? For Dandelions, apparently not. “In the case of most dandelions (i.e., Taraxacum officinale), the embryo in the seed forms without, meiosis, thus the offspring are genetically identical to the parent.” Note: If an herbicide is ever recommended, MGs only provide OSU recommendations. (Plant Guy, Howplantswork.com) https://bit.ly/2IHsx8b
Flower garden design basics: “…learn the aesthetic consequences of different strategies. Remember that, in most cases, there is more than one way to arrange plants, and that many of the ‘rules’ of garden design were made to be broken.” (Lee Nelson, Cornell University) https://bit.ly/2HcA7KZ
Hardy Plant Society of Oregon’s 30 favorite plants of 2018. (The Pecks, Oregonlive.com) https://bit.ly/2JCcJVs
New butterfly species discovered nearly 60 years after it was first collected. (University of Florida, Eurekalert.org) https://bit.ly/2GNIDNa
Plants, Fungi and Bacteria work together to clean polluted land. “Microbial interactions help fast growing trees breakdown petrochemical pollutants in the soil.Highly complex interactions among roots, fungi and bacteria underlie the ability of some trees to clean polluted land…” (Technologynetworks.com, Original story from McGill University) https://bit.ly/2HccFgU
Wild plants and historic archaeology. With the old homesteads long gone, “…what’s an archaeologist with a camera, pencil, paper, and keen observation skills to do? Read the landscape.” (Carl Feagans, Archaeology Review) https://bit.ly/2HrkQ6O
Researchers identify the cells that trigger flowering. “How do plants ‘know’ it is time to flower? A new study uncovers exactly where a key protein forms before it triggers the flowering process in plants.” (Linda B. Glaser & Krishna Ramanujan, Cornell Chronicle) https://bit.ly/2HrkT2u
These beetles use booze-soaked trees to farm their food. “Ambrosia beetles have a surprising reason for seeking out trees full of ethanol.” (Douglas Main, National Geographic) https://bit.ly/2GTCuiE
Mullerian mimicry and why telling bumble bee species apart by color can be hard. (Briana Ezray with Andony Melathopoulos, OSU; Pollination Podcast, OSU) https://bit.ly/2qmnmTO
Plant salt tolerance: recent research in Biotechnology. (Bioscriptionblog.com) https://bit.ly/2EAoRmr
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