June 9, 1995

Anthracnose of Shade Trees


Symptoms of anthracnose, primarily on ash and sycamore, have been evident on samples arriving in the Plant Disease Clinic. The disease may occur on sycamore, ash, maple, oak, walnut, linden, hickory, and other deciduous trees. Anthracnose is caused by a number of different but closely related fungi. Each fungus is specific to the host tree if affects.

Compost for Disease Control


For 20 years, scientists have been exploring the possibility that compost may help control some diseases. The addition of compost has reduced disease levels in potting mixes. Damping off and root rot diseases were reduced significantly with the addition of compost. Compost added to alfalfa fields resulted in healthier root systems and thicker plant stands. Phytophthora, a serious disease in soybeans and numerous other plants, has been reduced through the addition of compost and other cultural practices.

Scab on Crabapples


Why are the leaves falling from my crabapple? This has been a common question. The answer in most cases is scab. Scab is a disease caused by the fungus Venturia inaequalis. In early stages, spots on occur on leaves as small olive-green to black areas. The spots may coalesce, especially along the midvein of the leaf. Infected leaves will eventually turn yellow and fall from the tree. The extended wet conditions this spring have favored the development of the disease.

Frost Injury to Shade Trees


Over the last three weeks or so, Iowans throughout the state have been wondering what's wrong with their trees. Leaf samples sent to the Plant Disease Clinic showed a wide variety of brown spotting, marginal browning, and water soaking. Many species have been affected, including maple (most common), oak, hackberry, and ash. Leaf damage often occurs throughout the tree.

Change in Milorganite Label


For many years Milorganite, a biosolid fertilizer product, has had warnings on its label not to use the product on food crops. The reason for this labeling was because Milorganite and other biosolid fertilizers had high labels of cadmium, which could cause health problems.