By Margaret Bayne, OSU Extension Staff-retired, OSU Master Gardener
Lady beetles sometimes overwinter in structures, OSU
Five insect pests that overwinter in structures. (Nicole Sanchez, OSU Extension) https://bit.ly/2oAm5uS
Professional credentials and gardening expertise: Arborists. (Colby Moorburg, gardenprofessors.com) https://bit.ly/2VAVESc
Organic Fungicides for the Home Gardener. (FS128E; Dr. Linda Chalker-Scott, WSU; FS128E) https://bit.ly/2B3jX1T
Why do some oak trees produce more acorns than others do? (Todd Oder, mnn.com) https://bit.ly/2q6yJ5P
Spiders fly using electricity, not wind. “A surprising finding potentially solves the enduring mystery of how and when baby spiders become airborne.” (Andrew Patterson, cosmosmagazine.com) https://bit.ly/2mM19QH
Straw bale vegetable garden, Ohio State University
Using cereal straw bales in home gardens. (Dr. Linda Chalker-Scott, WSU) https://bit.ly/324KdEW
Did you know that earwigs have wings?“An ode to earwig wings, which break standard laws of origami.” Watch the video and see their beautiful wings! (Douglas Main, nationalgeographic.com) https://on.natgeo.com/2VBNqt3
Fertilizers — a cautionary tale. “Gardeners are assaulted with marketing campaigns nowhere better than in the fertilizer aisle of a garden center. There are so many choices and the labels suggest that fertilizing garden plants is a complicated process that requires specialized products.” (Jim Downer, gardenprofessors.com) https://bit.ly/2lKLDVi
The Amazon’s tallest tree just got 50 percent taller – and scientists don’t know how. (Iflscience.com) https://bit.ly/328aClr
Late summer pruning: what happens, what won’t work, and why. (Dr. Linda Chalker-Scott, WSU; gardenprofessors.com) https://bit.ly/35tr3e8
By Margaret Bayne, OSU Extension Staff-retired, OSU Master Gardener
Watch leaves change color in a matter of seconds. “A new time-lapse video of over 6,000 leaf photos reveals the biology behind fall foliage. As foliage darkens in the fall, the pigments within the plant matter break down and transform.” (Emily Toomey, Smithsonianmag.com) https://bit.ly/30RTbEM
How Plants Measure Their CO2 Uptake. “Plants face a dilemma in dry conditions: they have to seal themselves off to prevent losing too much water but this also limits their uptake of carbon dioxide. A sensory network assures that the plant strikes the right balance.” https://bit.ly/2kGvdN8
Watch the four finalist videos in the 2019 YouTube your entomology contest.(Entomologytoday.org) https://bit.ly/2lPrYTB
Exposed tree roots. Michael Hoelzl/ Creative Commons
Great Tree Root articles with links to resources: SelecTree: Right tree right place. (selectree.calpoly) https://bit.ly/2lMZMkA
Trees are not the root of sidewalk problems. (T. Davis Sydnor1, et al; Journal of Arboriculture) https://bit.ly/2lHeYzE
Soil’s Microbial Market Shows the Ruthless Side of Forests. “In the ‘underground economy’ for soil nutrients, fungi strike hard bargains and punish plants that won’t meet their price.” (Gabriel Popkin, Quantamagazine.org) https://bit.ly/2lImcTU
Daisies that close at night have camouflaged petals to protect them from herbivores. (Britishecologicalsociety.org) https://bit.ly/2maXuvG
Tree and shrub sampling for disease diagnosis. Watch the video and learn what makes a good sample for diagnosis.” (NC State U via youtube.com) https://bit.ly/2m52m5j
Rat, OSU
Tips for keeping rats out of home and garden. (Kym Pokorny, OSU; source: Dana Sanchez, OSU) https://bit.ly/2maNfrf
Could biological clocks in plants set the time for crop spraying? “Plants can tell the time, and this affects their responses to certain herbicides used in agriculture according to new research…” (Dr. Antony Dodd, University of Bristol) https://bit.ly/2ktmhe4
See the microscopic wonders of herbs! “A photographer reveals the intricacies of kitchen herbs. The result is otherworldly.” (Rob Dunn, nationalgeographic.com; photos by Martin Oeggerli) https://on.natgeo.com/2OXUEs1
European Honey bee, University of Florida
Surprise…bees need meat! “Ask an entomologist what makes a bee a bee, and you’ll likely get some version of “bees are just wasps that went vegetarian.” New research shows that isn’t true. Bees are actually omnivores, and their meat is microbes.” (Paige Embry, scientificamerican.com) https://bit.ly/2k6deiK
The journey of pollen. “Kiel research team deciphers adhesive mechanisms in pollination.” (Kiel University) https://bit.ly/2P8DRSZ
By Margaret Bayne, OSU Extension Staff-retired, OSU Master Gardener
Researchers determine ideal areas and timing for biological control of invasive stink bug. (Chris Branam, OSU; source:David Lowenstein, OSU) https://bit.ly/2KBiR38
Image: Female samurai wasp lays egg in mass of BMSB- Chris Hedstrom-ODA.jpg
Linden (Tilia cordata) associated bumble bee mortality: Metabolomic analysis of nectar and bee muscle study. (Clair Lande, et al; plos.org) https://bit.ly/2KASrhX
Tobacco plant ‘stickiness’ aids helpful insects, plant health. While not a crop we have here in Oregon, it is an interesting read. (Mick Kulikowski, NC State U) https://bit.ly/2H5h18i
Carbon dioxide and oxygen exchange at the soil-atmosphere boundary as affected by various mulch materials. “Mulching is a common soil management technique used in agricultural, nursery, and landscape settings. Despite multiple benefits, such as reducing weeds and evaporation, some mulches can also hinder gas exchange across the soil-atmosphere interface, and thus may have negative impacts on plant growth.(KhurramShahzad, et al; sciencedirect.com) https://bit.ly/2z0TAJ4
How spiders increase plant diversity. “If healthy ecosystems are what we desire, we must embrace predators. There is no way around it. Because of their meat-based diets, predators can have serious effects on plant diversity. Generally speaking, as plant diversity increases, so does the biodiversity of that region.” (Indefenseofplants.com) https://bit.ly/31oTdUH
“The world faces ‘pollinator collapse’? How and why the media get the science wrong time and again.” Interesting piece on a controversial subject. (Jon Entine, Geneticliteracyproject.org) https://bit.ly/2Pc65wn
Using flowers, leaves, twigs, and seeds, Canadian artist Raku Inoue creates intricate portraits of insects. Beautiful photos. (Daniel Stone, nationalgeographic.com)https://on.natgeo.com/2Y8Z4R1
Killer wasps invade central Oregon. “…these wasps infest wherever cicadas have settled, because the females need them for their larvae.”(KPND.com)https://bit.ly/2TDzazi
Surprising genetic diversity in old growth trees. “Many trees are often superbly capable of adapting to local conditions. Recently, a team of researchers from the University of British Columbia have provided some insights into the genetic mechanisms that may underpin such adaptive potential.”(Indefenseofplants.com)https://bit.ly/2OxMI0n
The surprising history and science of Poison Ivy and its relatives. “Do you think of poison ivy as a scurrilous weed to be avoided at all costs? Think again! There was a time when the daring and curious found promise in poison ivy and its rash-inducing relatives.” (Jane E. Boyd & Joseph Rucker, sciencehistory.org) https://bit.ly/31Cr7W1
Western Oregon conifers continue to show damage due to drought. (Kym Pokorny, OSU; Source: Dave Shaw, OSU) https://bit.ly/2H8agTr
Image: Dead Cedar tree, Dave Shaw, OSU
Can a dead tree help a neighboring tree? “Trees are commonly regarded as distinct entities, but the roots of many species fuse to form natural root grafts allowing the exchange of water, carbon, mineral nutrients, and microorganisms between individuals.”(M.K.-F. Bader& S. Leuzinger, Iscience) https://bit.ly/2MfZiPG
Managing plant pests with soaps. “A topic frequently discussed by home gardeners and professionals is the use of soap products to control plant pests. Limited and conflicting information on this topic has resulted in confusion and misuse of products. This document describes some of the different types of soaps and recommendations for proper, legal, and safe use of these products to manage pests.”(Matthew A. Borden and Adam G. Dale, UFL)https://bit.ly/33yaQmW
Ants that defend plants receive sugar and protein. (Peter Moon, agencia)https://bit.ly/2XU3INz
NASA has announced the first fruit they’ll grow on the ISS, And it’s hot. “Researchers are hoping to send up Española chili pepper plants (Capsicum annuum), which could make peppers the very first fruit to be grown in space by US astronauts.” (Jacinta Bowler,sciencealert.com) https://bit.ly/31H3KuB
‘Moon trees’ might just be one of the most epic Apollo legacies we’ve heard of.“On 31 January 1971, the Apollo 14 mission launched from Earth and spent nine days in space. Along with the necessary space gear, scientific equipment, and two golf balls, the Kitty Hawk command module was also housing 500 seeds.You might be surprised to know that those seeds live on today, despite enduring space radiation, and a decontamination mishap.” (Jacinta Bowler, sciencealert.com)https://bit.ly/2z0umdC
The windscreen phenomenon: anecdata is not scientific evidence. “The windscreen phenomenon refers to people’s perception that there are fewer insects being splattered on their windscreen than they used to see. It is one of the most common anecdotes presented as evidence of global insect decline in the Insectageddon stories. But anecdotes are not scientific evidence. Anecdotes describe local conditions, not globally-relevant facts.” (Manu Saunders, ecologyisnotadirtyword.com)https://bit.ly/2YLnUGR
Guide to pruning Hydrangeas-differences you need to know. (Raymond Bosmans, Professor Emeritus, UMD) https://bit.ly/2KxIX74
Image: Blue Hydrangea, Chris Branam, OSU
How Dracula orchids lure flies for pollination. “With over 28,000 species of orchid, it seems like there’s an orchid for every niche. The Dracula orchid’s niche is mimicking a mushroom.” (Alun Salt, botany.one)https://bit.ly/2Twwcwi
Cockroaches are rapidly evolving to become “almost impossible” to kill. “The rise of the superbug cockroach is upon us. A new study has found that German cockroaches (Blattella germanica) are rapidly evolving to become resistant to many widely used bug sprays and insecticides, as well as chemicals they’ve never been directly exposed to, making them near-impossible to eliminate and one step closer to taking over the world.” (Tom Hale, iflscience.com) https://bit.ly/2FMGBOZ
Long term problems with Tree Gators? Read what an expert has to say.(Dr. Linda Chalker-Scott, WSU) https://bit.ly/2ZZuOVo
A legendary Ozark chestnut tree, thought extinct, is rediscovered. “The chinquapin was supposed to have been wiped out by blight. Now one determined Missouri naturalist is hand-pollinating trees in secret groves to bring it back.” (Robert Langellier, nationalgeographic.com) https://on.natgeo.com/2YMxVU9
Insect repellent fact sheets. “The term “insect repellent” doesn’t accurately reflect how these materials work. They don’t actually repel insects, but rather block the receptors that mosquitoes, gnats, punkies, no-see-ums and other insects use to detect appropriate hosts for them to bite.” (UNH Extension) https://bit.ly/33y4ZxV
Using coffee ground in gardens and landscapes. (Dr. Linda Chalker-Scott, WSU) https://bit.ly/2lZuWoS
10+ bad*ss trees that refused to die even at the harshest
conditions. Amazing photos. (InfoLAJM.org) https://bit.ly/33y53xF
By Margaret Bayne, OSU Extension Staff-retired, OSU Master Gardener
July/August 2019
European earwig. Robin Rosetta, OSU
WSU scientists unmask the humble earwig as an apple-protecting predator. (Seth Truscott,, WSU) https://bit.ly/2KA1CiS
Native forest plants rebound when invasive shrubs are removed. While this relates to the east coast, it is very informative. (Jeff Mulhollem, Penn State U) https://bit.ly/2F50n7K
Watering space plants is hard, but NASA has a plan. (Ellen Airhart, msn.com) https://bit.ly/2WrH4LO
Decoding the mathematical secrets of plants’ stunning leaf patterns. “A Japanese shrub’s unique foliage arrangement leads botanists to rethink plant growth models.” (Maddie Burakoff, Smithonianmag.com) https://bit.ly/2Iuhtgu
Why calcium deficiency is not the cause of blossom-end rot in tomato and pepper fruit – a reappraisal. (Max C. Saure, sciencedirect.com) https://bit.ly/2IyKcRh
Flowers can hear buzzing bees—and it makes their nectar sweeter. (Michelle Z. Donahu, Nationalgeographic.com) https://on.natgeo.com/2Mi6LLl
Learn about natural insecticides. (Todd Murray: & Catherine Daniels; WSU, OSU, U of ID, PNW publication 649) https://bit.ly/2I8UCb0
White tailed deer. US Forest Service
Learn from an expert about managing wildlife conflicts in your home and garden. (Dana Sanchez, OSU, PNW 719) https://bit.ly/2R7BnSg
Paper wasps capable of behavior that resembles logical reasoning. “A new study provides the first evidence of transitive inference, the ability to use known relationships to infer unknown relationships, in a nonvertebrate animal: the lowly paper wasp.” (U of Michigan, via sciencedaily.com) https://bit.ly/2YeG92z
By Margaret Bayne, OSU Extension Staff-retired, OSU Master Gardener
June 2019
Is the Insect Apocalypse Upon Us? Learn the facts from an Entomologist from OSU. (Gail Langellotto-Rhodaback, OSU) https://bit.ly/2XAFmJ4
Scientific literacy for the citizen scientist- Learn what “research-based’ means. Great info for MGs! (Dr. Linda Chalker-Scott & Catherine H. Daniels, WSU) https://bit.ly/2JF2SB0
Black walnut – Oregon State University
Do Black Walnut trees have alleopathic effects on other plants? (Dr. Linda Chalker-Scott, WSU) https://bit.ly/2VBjKQg
Trees with “crown shyness” mysteriously avoid touching each other. (Kelly Richman-Abdou, mymodernmet.com) https://bit.ly/2LHoDCJ
Urban trees grow fast and die young. “A US study raises questions over the long-term benefits of current city greening schemes.” (Mark Bruer, cosmosmagazine.com) https://bit.ly/2WJccau
Do additives help the soil? Scientist suggests nature knows what’s best. (University of British Columbia Okanagan campus via sciencedaily) https://bit.ly/2Q1EIBB
How the bumble bee got its stripes (bands.) “A new study … has identified the gene responsible for the color switch between the red and black color forms of the bumble bee, Bombus melanopygus.” (Pennsylvania State University via phys.org) https://bit.ly/2Q3IQRD
The hunger gaps: how flowering times affect farmland bees. “Planting wildflower strips is a common strategy for providing pollinators with more food on farmland. These can provide plenty of pollen and nectar for bees to feed on, but most of this food supply is limited to the late spring and early summer when there is already plenty to eat.” (University of Bristol) https://bit.ly/2E85a83
Earthworms – Oregon State University
The real reason you see earthworms after rain. (Matthew L. Miller, blogNature.org) https://bit.ly/2JgIJ3Q
An endangered Iris with an intriguing pollination syndrome. (Indefenseofplants.com) https://bit.ly/30iQwUQ
Why plant blindness matters. “A phenomenon called “plant blindness” means we tend to underappreciate the flora around us. That can have disastrous consequences not only for the environment, but human health.” (Christine Ro, bbc.com) https://bbc.in/2VwGO2B
With flower preferences, bees have a big gap between the sexes. “Female and male bees of the same species frequent different flowers… study finds.” (Rutgers U via eurekalert.org) https://bit.ly/2Vys4QF
Jill O’Donnell – Michigan State University
Are homemade pesticides even legal?(Note: OSU Master Gardeners don’t recommend the use of homemade pesticides) (Erin Lizotte, Michigan State U) https://bit.ly/2E6vbVs
Gooey seeds. “Some seeds can get pretty sticky when water gets involved. Anyone that has ever tried to grow a Chia pet or put chia seeds into water will know what I mean. The seeds of chia (Salvia hispanica) are but one example of seeds that turn gooey with water. The question is, why do they do this? What role does sticky mucilage play in the reproductive cycle of plants around the globe?” https://bit.ly/2LHyhW5
Salk scientists plan to combat climate change with plants. “A team of plant scientists at The Salk Institute believes their simple idea of harnessing the power of plants to capture carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and store it in their roots could have a dramatic impact on efforts to combat climate change.” (Mark Sauer & Megan Burke, kpbs.org) https://bit.ly/2HhKCf9
The scoop on poop: Manure in the vegetable garden (and potential food safety risks) (John Porter, Gardenprogressors.com) https://bit.ly/2JD9sIg
New interactive website displays massive butterfly and moth collection. “A new website launched by the University of Alaska Fairbanks will allow the public to view high-resolution images of thousands of butterflies and moths gathered by renowned collector Kenelm Philip.” (Jeff Richardson, University of Alaska Fairbanks) https://bit.ly/2Hjgwa2
A woman spent 14 years photographing the planets oldest tree. Check out these stunning photographs. (Julija Neje, boredpanda.com) https://bit.ly/2JDw5vW
By Margaret Bayne, OSU Extension Staff-retired, OSU Master Gardener
May 2019
Photo: Lynn Ketchum, OSU
Liver, colon cancer cells thwarted by compounds derived from hops. (Adrian Gombart, via Steve Lundeberg, OSU) https://bit.ly/2G9AXpb
Sticky science: Evolution of spider webs. “The eight-legged weavers have been hunting insects for almost 400 million years, flaunting their long history in a rich array of architectures. Scientists are still figuring out the taxonomy of them all.” (Lindzi Wessel, knowablemagazine.org) https://bit.ly/2P3IzO9
A quest for Bumblebee nests: The missing link. (Amanda Liczner, PhD Candidate, York University, via Xerces.org) https://bit.ly/2K0mWiV
Stem girdling roots – Abiotic factors in the landscape and garden. Watch the video! (Virginia Cooperative Extension, via Youtube) https://bit.ly/2P5dFFc
Beauty is in the nose of the beholder. “It’s no surprise that a flower releases scent to attract a pollinator, but why would it do it hours before the pollinator is around? New research finds scent can have more than one job.” (Alun Salt, botanyone) https://bit.ly/2VCh80x
A lawn is better than fertilizer for growing healthy blueberries. (Blog, Frontiers Science News) https://bit.ly/2UN5p1X
Beware of sleeping queen bumblebees underfoot this spring. “Scientists at Queen Mary University of London have discovered a never before reported behaviour of queen bumblebees.” (Queens Mary University of London, via Sciencedaily.com) https://bit.ly/2ImVSbg
Using arborist wood chips as landscape mulch. (Dr. Linda Chalker–Scott, WSU) https://bit.ly/2IrlPXd
Plant researchers are providing new insights into basic cell division in plants. (Martin-Luther University Hall-Wittenberg via sciencedaily.com) https://bit.ly/2IryIjR
Understanding the mysteries of plant diseases: Prevention, Control and Cure (Part 3 of 3 in this blog series.) (Jim Downer via gardenprofessors.com) https://bit.ly/2DaYghJ
Pretty sly for a whitefily– “One of the world’s worst agricultural pests corrupts the alarm signals of plants, disarming those that otherwise might prepare for an assault.” (Ed Yong, theatlantic.com) https://bit.ly/2Fuojkn
Great pruning & training resources for fruit trees. (Treefruit, WSU) https://bit.ly/2X47Tqg
How trees and turnips grow fatter – “Researchers unlock the secrets of radial growth… Botanists have identified key regulatory networks controlling how plants grow ‘outwards,’ which could help us to grow trees to be more efficient carbon sinks and increase vegetable crop yields.” (University of Cambridge via sciencedaily.com) https://bit.ly/2IdTeW4
Something is rapidly killing young apple trees in North American orchards and the Scientists are stumped. (Erik Stokstad, sciencemag.org) https://bit.ly/2X5BWO9
Watch this great Ted Talk! “Ew to awe: Your view of bugs may never be the same.” (Danae Wolfe via youtube.com) https://bit.ly/2GTa6R2
Cornmeal and corn gluten meal applications in gardens and landscapes. (Dr. Linda Chalker-Scott, WSU) https://bit.ly/2Iuqo2T
Check out these amazing illustrations of the nervous system of a honeybee. (Eric Keller, bloopatone.com) https://bit.ly/2VCPcJZ
Plant defenses against them drive diversity in tropical rainforest. “Researchers have been baffled by tropical rainforest diversity for over a century; 650 different tree species can exist in an area covering two football fields, yet similar species never grow next to each other. It seems like its good to be different than your neighbors, but why?” (U of Utah) https://bit.ly/2TODKx5
Salal with thrip damage, Photo: Ask an Expert
It’s not Azalea Lacebug damage! Find out what’s really happening to Salal at the coast. (Ask an Expert, OSU) https://bit.ly/2VCT6lR
Fungi fight plants. “These symbiotes are also sometimes screens when it comes to establishing plant ranges.” (Staff, manitobacooperator.ca) https://bit.ly/2Gjqyrp
Compound of berries and leaves of American beautyberry, Callicarpa Americana, show potential as repellents against mosquitoes and, now, some ticks. (Luis Pons, ars.usda.gov) https://bit.ly/2U9fq4Z
Antennal sensors allow hawkmoths to make quick moves. “All insects use vision to control their position in the air when they fly, but they also integrate information from other senses. Biologists have now shown how hawkmoths use mechanosensors in their antennae to control fast flight maneuvers.” (Lund University, via sciendaly.com) https://bit.ly/2GgNB75
Mosquito Hawk? Skeeter eater? Giant Mosquito? No, No, and No! Learn about Crane Flies. (Leslie Mertz, entomologytoday.org) https://bit.ly/2P43yAx
By Margaret Bayne, OSU Extension Staff-retired, OSU Master Gardener
April 2019
Photo: University Connecticut
Corn gluten meal did not prevent weeds from germinating in OSU study. (Tom Cook, OSU) https://bit.ly/2T2081k
A gardener’s primer to cold hardiness, part 2 (see part 1 in last month’s MG newsletter-Horticultural Updates) (Dr. Linda Chalker-Scott, WSU) https://bit.ly/2O12TiL
Insect Apocalypse? “The underlying science does not indicate that a global “insect apocalypse” is anywhere near imminent.” Read what the Entomological Society says about the recent media reports of the demise of insects. (Entsoc.org) https://bit.ly/2TMFKWz
You are what you eat: A color-changing insect modifies diet to become distasteful. “Lanternflies change diet and color to become distasteful and signal distastefulness.” https://bit.ly/2XSZDuf
Seed Oddities: Vivipary-The type of vivipary discussed is quite rare, occurring in only a handful of species and prevalent in a select number of environments. (Akwardbotany.com) https://bit.ly/2VUgAm9
Individual lichens can have up to three fungi– “according to new research from an international team of researchers. This evidence provides new insight into another recent discovery that showed lichen are made up of more than a single fungus and alga, overturning the prevailing theory of more than 150 years.” (University of Alberta, via sciencedaily.com) https://bit.ly/2SXtjCU
Winter leaf Marcescence– learn why some trees hold onto last year’s leaves longer in the spring than other trees. (Joey Williamson, Clemson U) https://bit.ly/2HeIyWB
Arborvitae stands tall as a low-maintenance hedge. (Neil Bell, via Kym Pokorny, OSU) https://bit.ly/2UypPbq
Feel the Heat: Temperature and Germination- “Thinking of it this way, seeds and germination are just like Goldilocks and her porridge – there’s too hot, too cold, and “just” right. Seeds are the same way – there’s a “just right” temperature for germination. The seeds of each species has a different optimal temperature for germination with a range of minimum and maximum temperatures for the process.” Learn more from an expert. (John Porter, gardenprofessors.com) https://bit.ly/2UtZ5Jf
How the humble marigold outsmarts a devastating tomato pest. “Researchers carried out a study to prove what gardeners around the world have known for generations — marigolds repel tomato whiteflies.” (Newcastle University, via sciencedaily.com) https://bit.ly/2TyFew7
Infographic: Plants Deploy Exosomes to Stop Alien Invaders. “A growing branch of research on how plants use exosomes to interact with their environment is opening up a new field of plant biology.” (Amanda Keener, the-scientist.com) https://bit.ly/2HelzuR
Desert bacteria give plants an edge over high salinity soils. (Sterlingadmin, bioscriptionblog.com) https://bit.ly/2EQB9sM
Greener childhood associated with happier adulthood. (Johnathan Lambert, npr.org) https://n.pr/2T8Y24b
Photo: NPIC – Oregon State University
Garden use of treated lumber. “This fact sheet explains the most widely used method for treating wood, examines the possible risks from gardening uses of treated lumber, and makes recommendations for reducing any such risks.” (Richard Stehouwer, Penn State U) https://bit.ly/2qSFA00
A tasty Florida butterfly turns sour. “A 15-year study by entomologists found that, when living apart from the unsavory bug it mimics, the viceroy butterfly becomes yucky, making biologists rethink old theories about animal mimicry.” (University of Arizona, via Sciencedaily.com) https://bit.ly/2NYR4ti
Inside the Spittlebug’s bubble home– “Those foamy eruptions on garden plants protect a slow and steady sap drinker that is growing into a froghopper. But it has to stick its hind end out to breathe.” (James Gorman, nytimes.com) https://nyti.ms/2O0sFUi
Weird new Tarantula species discovered with bizarre “horn” on its back. “Details of a new tarantula previously unknown to science have been revealed by researchers working in Angola. The spider has a very peculiar feature, unlike any other related species we have encountered so far.” (Alfredo Carpineti, iflscience.com) https://bit.ly/2ChhPop
Bizarre Video Shows A Frozen Tree Melting From The Inside- “…a coat of ice has slightly peeled away from the trunk and branches, allowing a steady stream of water to trickle down the bark under the icy top layer as it melts.” Cool! (Tom Hale, iflscience.com) https://bit.ly/2NZfR0l
Fruit flies don’t need sleep like other animals to survive, study suggests. (Kristy Hamilton, iflscience.com) https://bit.ly/2VRvF88
Honeybees’ waggle dance no longer useful in some cultivated landscapes. (R. I’Anson Price, et al; via Johannes Gutenburg Universitat, Mainz) https://bit.ly/2JaTgPH
Understanding mysteries of plant diseases: Diagnosis and Detection (Part 2 of 3 in this blog series) (Jim Downer, gardenprofessors.com) https://bit.ly/2NZEWIF
Rediscovering Wallace’s Giant Bee: In Search Of Raja Ofu, The King Of Bees (Clay Bolt, Lost Species News via globalwildlife.org) https://bit.ly/2U25k6I
Snowdrop basics. “The sight of snowdrop shoots poking up through snow-covered ground is one of the first signs that spring is near. It was once thought that their leaves were thermogenic, producing their own heat in order to melt through the snow. However, it is more likely a thermal effect of sunlight heating the tips of the leaves warmer than the surrounding snow.” (Linda Hagen, Gardendesign.com) https://bit.ly/2F7Wlft
Photo: Oregon State University
Planting a garden soon? Find out which vegetables were hits or misses from OSU’s 2017 research. (Brooke Edmunds, et al; OSU) https://bit.ly/2IWEYgR
Tyrannosaurus rex ate meat but also accidentally planted fruit. “T-Rex is famous for being a deadly carnivore, was likely assisting in the widespread dispersal of fruit seeds. A recent report in New Scientist suggests that T Rex was inadvertently planting fruits across the landscape in its droppings after devouring plant-eating animals.” (Chrissy Sexton, earth.com) https://bit.ly/2F8uGLl
This beetle bites an ant’s waist and pretends to be it butt. “It takes an unusual strategy to survive nature’s most destructive swarms.” (Ed Yong, theAtlantic.com) https://bit.ly/2XT0drV
Insect identification: Experts and guides to ID that bug you found. (Entomologytoday.org) https://bit.ly/2Cl3TcR
Pollen sleuths: Tracking pesticides in honey bee pollen to their source plant. (Kimberly Stoner, Richard Cowles, and Brian Eitzer, entomologytoday.org) https://bit.ly/2EUHgfP
Genetically modified super-charged Cassava could help stamp out malnourishment in Africa, (Tom Hale, Iflscience.com) https://bit.ly/2EZqCvo
100-million-year-old amber fossil suggests Mosquitoes carried Malaria when dinosaurs walked the Earth. (Rachel Baxter, iflscience.com) https://bit.ly/2Hg4SPG
Downy Mildew resistant Impatiens may be available soon! Syngenta to launch IDM-Resistant Impatiens at Spring Trials. (Chris Beytes, Growertalks.com) https://bit.ly/2NXRr7B
Cicada-killer wasp, Ronald F. Billings, Texas Forest Service
When Cicada-Killer wasps become cicada-stealer wasps. (Edward Ricciuti (Entomology Today) https://bit.ly/2MQanV2
Guttation-just a curious plant thing? (Tony Koski, Cohorts Blog, Colorado State U) https://bit.ly/2GAG1Vz
Culprit found for honeybee deaths in almond groves.(Misti Crane, Ohio State U) https://bit.ly/2Gmy9YG
The plant that farms other plants for food. “It’s not just animals that the ladderwort, Utricularia, eats. Two new papers are finding out how bladderworts also digest microscopic plants.” (Alun Salt, Botany One) https://bit.ly/2WYQZtF
Great selection of gardening videos! (Virginia Cooperative Extension Master Gardener) https://bit.ly/2UUm2VS
Flowers can hear buzzing bees—and it makes their nectar sweeter. (Michelle Z. Donahue, National Geographic) https://on.natgeo.com/2GDgQlg
Overcoming the challenges of farming on Mars. “Scientists are trying to perfect a technique for growing crops in space so that astronauts have enough food to get to Mars and back.” (Benjamin Plackett , Inside Science) https://bit.ly/2SwYklW
Extreme temperatures burn stone fruit from inside out, causing severe loss. (Jessica Schremmer, ABC.net) https://ab.co/2GEYzUD
This unbelievably rare opal has a fossilized bug trapped inside. (Tom Hale, Iflscience) https://bit.ly/2Spn9QH
The Cotton plant that sprouted on the far side of the moon has died. “China, which is manning the first probe to land on the lunar far side, was hoping to find out how plants fare in outer space.” (Brigit Katz, Smithonianmag.com) https://bit.ly/2CtNfXV
Spider dances for his life- Watch the video. (Lifestory, BBC via youtube.com) https://bit.ly/2GmYVQy
How ants sniff out the right path. “They may seem like automatons, but ants are surprisingly sophisticated in their navigational strategies.” (James Gorman, NY Times) https://nyti.ms/2WWyq9B
Microbiological safety of chicken litter or chicken litter-based organic fertilizers: A review. (Zhao Chen & Xiuping Jiang, Clemson U, via mdpi.com) https://bit.ly/2UTCMMR
Float like a Dragontail Butterfly-beautiful video! (Center for Biological Diversity, via Youtube.com) https://bit.ly/2SqD9Sh
Moths muffle bat Sonar with sound-absorbing wings- “To shield themselves from bat echolocation, moths don an acoustic cloak of invisibility—using the sound-absorbing scales on their wings.” (Katherine J. Wu, PBS.org) https://to.pbs.org/2GmZzgZ
Horticultural Oils – What a gardener needs to know. (JoAnne Skelly, U of Nevada Extension) https://bit.ly/2tjC8MN
Compost in seed starting mix: Recipe for success….or failure? (John Porter, gardenprofessors.com) https://bit.ly/2E3SShb
Plant hardiness zones: Why are they important? (Buncombe County Master Gardeners. NC Extension) https://bit.ly/2E39rd9
Your view of bugs may never be the same- “…after seeing these endearing photo stories of how bugs are cute, how bugs provide value, and how bugs are a lot more like us than many think.”
(Danae Wolfe, Ted Talk, via Youtube.com) https://bit.ly/2DvCwwB
What do opponents of genetically modified foods really know about the science? “The study, published in Nature Human Behaviour, found that the strongest critics actually know less—a pattern similar for gene therapy, but not for climate change.” (Michele W. Berger, Penn Today, U of Penn) https://bit.ly/2Hf3RIj
Why do Rhododendron leaves droop and curl in the winter? (In Defense of Plants) https://bit.ly/2DyaDE7
Cool video shows spiders “raining” from the sky in Brazil. (Iflscience.com) https://bit.ly/2SJKxrl
Kalanchoe, Colorado State University
Learn about different houseplants from the experts. (Plant Talk, Colorado State University) https://bit.ly/2BuwoEu
Find out how long your seed packs will last. (Amateur gardening.com) https://bit.ly/2UZsdIn
How Poppy flowers get those vibrant colors that entice insects. (U of Groningen) https://bit.ly/2TJ87lh
By Margaret Bayne, OSU Extension Staff-retired, OSU Master Gardener
February 2019
Listen to a podcast about the history of angiosperms (flowering plants) with Dr. Nan Crystal Arens from Hobart and William Smith Colleges. “Her work on angiosperms of the early Cretaceous has given us insights into the evolutionary pressures that may have led to the evolution of flowering plants as well as how these early angiosperms made their living in a landscape already vegetated by a preponderance of gymnosperms.” (Indefenseofplants.com) https://bit.ly/2Ck1yxZ
Young Beech, winter branches. Emma Tutein University of New Hampshire Extension
How branches, bark and buds help you ID trees and shrubs. “Winter seems like a lousy time to identify trees and shrubs. Without leaves to look at, things definitely get a little difficult, but with a few tricks, and maybe a good book in hand, you can up your botany game and learn to identify trees and shrubs without leaves!” (Emma Tutein, U of NH) https://bit.ly/2srmbUh
Watch scientists train bees to play with tiny soccer balls! “The study shows that bees can adapt to really weird circumstances… Here’s the buzz: bees are brilliant. And not just because they are a vital part of our ecosystem. Bees are also very clever—and apparently capable of learning one of the basic fundamentals of football.” (Mary Beth Griggs, popsci.com) https://bit.ly/2VLA3q0
Beech trees are dying, and nobody’s sure why. “Intense effort underway to find culprit behind rapid disease spread.” Misti Crane, Ohio State U) https://bit.ly/2Hgl6JB
It takes a mosquito to fight a mosquito. “In Australia, China and elsewhere, scientists are fighting disease-carrying mosquitoes by introducing another type, carrying just a harmless form of bacteria.” (Tina Rosenberg, nytimes.com) https://nyti.ms/2FmGRp1
New plant discovery at Longwood Gardens– Cyrtosia (syn. Galeola) septentrionalis, “…It’s considered impossible to cultivate and has never previously been found in the United States. So what makes Cyrtosia so special—and how did it come to be at Longwood?” https://bit.ly/2RpPEgB
Watch a forest appear to breath when hit by strong winds! “When a forest in Quebec was hit with heavy winds, the forest floor began to undulate as if it were breathing. This incredible phenomenon happens during storms when the soil is saturated and loosens from the tree’s roots.” (Stepoutside.org) https://bit.ly/2Rn9t86
Early Thanksgiving counts show a critically low Monarch population in California. “The California overwintering population has been reduced to less than 0.5% of its historical size, and has declined by 86% compared to 2017.” (Xerces.org) https://bit.ly/2snFCgM
Dry conditions may have helped a new type of plant gain a foothold on Earth. “Plants reap energy from the sun using two photosynthesis pathways, C3 and C4. A new study suggests that water availability drove the expansion of C4 species, which may help to explain how different plant lineages came to be distributed on the planet today.” (U of Pennsylvania via Sciencedaily.com) https://bit.ly/2CipjGR
New research has discovered how plant roots sense the availability of moisture in soil and then adapt their shape to optimize acquisition of water. “The discovery could enable crops to be bred which are more adaptive to changes in climate conditions, such as water scarcity, and help ensure food security in the future.” (U of Nottingham via sciencedaily.com) https://bit.ly/2VQW6eT
So many Shot Hole Borers: New research charts four nearly identical species. (Jiri Hulcr, Ph.D., and Jackson Landers, entomology.today.org) https://bit.ly/2Ty6Xsb
Antennal sensors allow hawkmoths to make quick moves. “All insects use vision to control their position in the air when they fly, but they also integrate information from other senses. Biologists at Lund University have now shown how hawkmoths use mechanosensors in their antennae to control fast flight maneuvers.” (Lund University via phys.org) https://bit.ly/2Rocxkh
52 million tree stories more accessible to science. “The world’s primary archive of tree ring data, which holds more than 52 million cost-free records spanning 8,000 years of history, has gotten a makeover by scientists from four countries committed to making science more accessible.” (Harvard U via sciencedaily.com) https://bit.ly/2D5ZefO
Planting hedges along roads may keep us all healthier -Field investigations for evaluating green infrastructure effects on air quality in open-road conditions.(K.V.Abhijith & Prashant Kumar, Sciencedirect.com) https://bit.ly/2AyO7tW
How do I care for an amaryllis after it is finished blooming? (Richard Jauron, Willy Klein, Iowa State U) https://bit.ly/2AKYUkO
Scientists have ‘hacked Photosynthesis’ in search of more productive crops.(Dan Charles, npr.org) https://n.pr/2SyXMaR
Did you know spiders can fly hundreds of miles using electricity? “Scientists are finally starting to understand the centuries-old mystery of “ballooning.” (Ed Young, theatlantic.com) https://bit.ly/2MSI3jM
The founder of the Boy Scouts hid maps in insect drawings. Can you find the secrets in these bug illustrations? (Jack Goodman, altlasobscura.com) https://bit.ly/2Chdalp
Crab spiders and Pitcher plants: a dynamic duo! (indefenseofplants.com) https://bit.ly/2RpRspB
Life-Long Radar Tracking of Bumblebees. “Insect pollinators such as bumblebees play a vital role in many ecosystems, so it is important to understand their foraging movements on a landscape scale…used harmonic radar to record the natural foraging behavior of Bombus terrestris audax workers over their entire foraging career.” (Joseph L. Woodgate, et al, plos.org) https://bit.ly/2QK9L3E
Tree wound. Jay Pscheidt, OSU, Pacific NW Disease Management Handbook
Tree Wound Paints. “Paints have been used over the years to try to protect tree wounds from invasion by microorganisms and to promote healing. With a few exceptions, paints are not widely recommended for this use.” (Jay Pschdeit, OSU PNW Disease Handbook) https://bit.ly/2snwuJ6
Watch the beautiful video: Botanical Animation- Story of Flowers. (AMMK designs via Youtube.com) https://bit.ly/2H7wbw8
What makes a tree a tree? Despite numerous studies and 30-plus genomes under their belts, scientists are still struggling to nail down the defining traits of these tall, long-lived, woody plants (Rachel Ehrenberg, knowablemagazine.org) https://bit.ly/2q4vZmD
The secret life of plants: Ten new species found this year. (Helen Briggs, bbc.com) https://bbc.in/2Rtij4t
Wow! Watch this amazing video of the harvesting of olives. (Réceptacle automatique, Youtube.com) https://bit.ly/2Cgy8Rs
Back to the land: are young farmers the new starving artists? “A small but growing movement of millennials are seeking out a more agrarian life but the reality of life on the land is not always as simple as they hoped.” (Lucia Graves, theguardian.com) https://bit.ly/2TMdcbV
Did you get a Poinsettia for Christmas? Watch the video and find out how to keep it alive!(Utah State) https://bit.ly/2ASKM9x
Scientists discover secret to how plants branch to locate water– “…plant roots branch to find water which could help increase food security.” (Jessica Miley, interestingengineering.com) https://bit.ly/2FpnueW
Researchers develop a new houseplant that can clean your home’s air. “Researchers have genetically modified a common houseplant to remove chloroform and benzene from the air around it.”(University of Washington, labmanager.com) https://bit.ly/2SVRZg0
An introduction to Hornworts. “When was the last time you thought about hornworts? Have you ever thought about hornworts? If you answered no, you aren’t alone.” (Indefenseofplants.com) https://bit.ly/2FlhpAx
Why taxonomic preparedness is critical for invasive species response. “Responding to invasive insects is a three-fold endeavor, involving detection or interception, accurate and fast identification (i.e., taxonomy), and thorough ecological investigations.” Researchers “…recount the taxonomic work that sprang into action to investigate natural enemies of the brown marmorated stink bug (Halyomorpha halys) after its arrival in North America in the late 1990s, as an example of how taxonomic preparedness is critical to the success of biological control efforts to respond to invasive species.” (Matthew L. Buffington, Ph.D., et al; entomologytoday.com) https://bit.ly/2SQvmcJ
One of nature’s smallest flowering plants can survive inside of a duck. “If one duckweed lands where a bird relieves itself, it’s capable of eventually creating a dense mat of duckweeds where there were none before.” (Veronique Greenwood, nytimes.com) https://nyti.ms/2Lr281e
Plants don’t like to be touched. “The findings… could lead to new approaches to optimizing plant growth and productivity – from field-based farming to intensive horticulture production. (La Trobe University) https://bit.ly/2EwCdoe
Why doesn’t my Holly have berries? Lack of berries on Holly is a common concern for homeowners. (Silloo Kapadia, MG; Penn State U) https://bit.ly/2RFt8zB
This is a shame! The decline of insect representation in biology textbooks over time. (Kiran Gangwani & Jennifer Landin; Academic Entomologist, Oxford Academy) https://bit.ly/2RNUy68
Researcher identifies new weapons against slugs. “Essential oils from thyme and spearmint are proving lethal to crop-damaging slugs without the toxicity to humans, animals or the environment that chemical solutions can present… McDonnell was hired by OSU in 2016 after Oregon farmers told the university’s leaders that more research was needed to fight slugs, which have become increasingly destructive in recent years.”(Mateusz Perkowsk, Capitalpress.com) https://bit.ly/2CkcXxE
Is organic food worse for the climate than non-organic food? “If you eat organic food in the belief that you’re helping the planet, this study suggests you might be doing more harm than good. International researchers from Chalmers University of Technology looked at the impact of organic and conventional food production on the climate.” (Iflscience.com) https://bit.ly/2Hi0DnI
How close-up glamour shots are generating buzz for bees. “The pictures were taken for science, but found a wider audience because they’re gorgeous and a little trippy.” (Jessica Leigh Hester, atlasobscura.com) https://bit.ly/2Cj2fru
The pickle is in trouble! Scientists are fighting for the stricken pickle against this tricky disease. (Carolyn Beans, npr.org) https://n.pr/2GmQ6Hd
Plants’ defense against insects is a bouquet. “A research study… sheds light on how blend of chemicals strengthens plants’ defense against insect pests.” (Joy Landis, Michigan State U)defense against insect pests. https://bit.ly/2FmMqny
By Margaret Bayne, OSU Extension Staff-retired, OSU Master Gardener
January 2019
Myth busting- Poinsettia plant is irritating but not fatal. “The Bottom Line: The poinsettia plant is often considered deadly. That’s wrong. Poinsettia can be irritating but it is not fatal if eaten. If children and pets eat it, they can develop a mouth rash and stomach upset. The sap can cause a skin rash, too.” (Rose Ann Gould Soloway, Clinical Toxicologist & Serkalem Mekonnen, Certified Specialist in poison Information; Poison.org) https://bit.ly/2yPoIf9
NEW OSU PUBLICATION: Pacific Poison Oak and Western Poison Ivy-Identification and Management. (Brooke Edmunds, et al; OSU) https://bit.ly/2SH75Fq
Paranthrene simulans clearwing moth. University of Georgia
Night-flyers or day-trippers? A new study sheds light on when moths, and butterflies are active. (Natalie van Hoose, Floridamuseum- U of Florida) https://bit.ly/2LdDgtA
Learn about pheromone traps from the experts. “Pheromones are chemicals used by insects and other animals to communicate with each other. Insects send these chemical signals to help attract mates, warn others of predators, or find food.” (NPIC.orst.edu) https://bit.ly/2PA7N5l
Learn how plants evolved to make ants their servants. “Plants are boring. They just sit there photosynthesizing while animals have all the fun. Right? Not so much. Take a look at the interactions between ants and plants.” (Fieldmuseum.org) https://bit.ly/2SE9MaK
How do trees survive winter months? (Michael Snyder, Vermont Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation via Northernwoodlands.org) https://bit.ly/2Qp8G5u
Gardening could be the hobby that helps you live to 100! “Many of the world’s centenarians share one common hobby: gardening.” (Jamie Feldmar, BBC.com) https://bbc.in/2zTB8md
Is the insect apocalypse here? And what does it mean for the rest of life on Earth?(Brooke Jarvi, nytimes.com) https://nyti.ms/2Aq0jMX
12 beautiful photo examples of Guttation. “Guttation is the exudation of drops of sap (xylem) on the tips or edges of leaves of some vascular plants, such as grasses. Guttation is not to be confused with dew, which condenses from the atmosphere onto the plant surface.” (Twistedsifter.com) https://bit.ly/2z0kUYe
Maple with winter injury. Jay Pscheidt, OSU
Winter injury of landscape plants in the pacific northwest. Great info from OSU! (PNWhandbooks.org) https://bit.ly/2rzXfd2
Don’t think Arachnids are loving? Learn about the spider who nurses its young with milky liquid. (Iflscience.com) https://bit.ly/2EgpOUk
How to get rid of pantry pests. Watch the video! (U of California IPM via youtube.com) https://bit.ly/2UCRA3c
Christmas Cactus Confusion. Did you get a Christmas Cactus or did you really get a Thanksgiving Cactus? (WOS, worldofsucucculents.com) https://bit.ly/2C9UK7h
Plant roots- hidden masters of chemistry. Check out the infographic. (Lucas Busta, U of Nebraska via community.plantae.org) https://bit.ly/2QOl2Ee
Rare microbes lead scientists to discover new branch on the tree of life. “Hemimastigotes are more different from all other living things than animals are from fungi.” (Emily Chung, cbc.ca) https://bit.ly/2PwZ2Or
Fall leaves of Pin Oak, OSU Landscape Plant ID
“Ever wondered why some deciduous trees hold on to their leaves through the winter and others go bare? Learn about marcescent leaves and why they might just help a tree out.” (Jim Finley, Penn State via Jeffcogardener, Colorado State Extension) https://bit.ly/2RVKiWD
Rainforest vine compound reportedly starves pancreatic cancer cells. (ACS.org) https://bit.ly/2Bd4coO
How chloroplasts maintain energy efficiency. (University of Hong Kong via sciencedaily.com) https://bit.ly/2GmPuBA
Mexico’s endangered stingless bees mysteriously find a sweeter home in Cuba. (Sadie Witkowski, npr.org) https://n.pr/2QHUp3Z
Critical collections- The importance of biological samples and their preservation goes beyond the obvious. (Peter Reuell, Harvard Gazette) https://bit.ly/2zYHKzM
Say What: Pronouncing Botanical Latin (Rebecca Alexander, Arboretumfoundation.org) https://bit.ly/2UHzoVU
Photosynthesis makes a sound. The ping of algae turning sunlight into energy adds to the soundscape of marine ecosystems. (Sarah Keartes, hakaimagazine.com) https://bit.ly/2SljVZG
Scientists Develop World’s First Vaccination For Insects To Help Save Honey Bees. “Scientists have developed a new edible vaccine to help honeybees stave off potentially deadly bacterial infections. This is the very first “inoculation” designed specifically for insects.” (Rosie McCall, iflscience.com) https://bit.ly/2SLWNUH
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