July 16, 2019

Summer blooming trees


Spring often gets all the attention when it comes to flowers, especially flowering trees. Yet, there are several tree species that bloom in early to late summer.  In addition to their late bloom, these trees en have other ornamental features that make them deserving of a spot in your landscape.

Phyllosticta needle blight


Phyllosticta needle blight, caused by the pathogen Phyllosticta thujae, is one of the few foliar diseases we see on arborvitae in the clinic. Pathogens of the genus Phyllosticta can also infect fir trees, junipers, and spruce.

Plant and Insect Diagnostic Clinic Update – July 15, 2019


The following are highlights and updates about sample submissions for our different services (identification or Plant problem diagnosis from fruit, vegetables, and ornamentals), and questions recently received in the Plant and Insect Diagnostic Clinic. Visit the PIDC's Facebook page for updates and more pictures. For more information on a particular disease or insect problem listed, follow the article cited.

Fruit and Vegetable Field Day Planned for Aug. 5


The fruit and vegetable research taking place at Iowa State University’s Horticulture Research Station will be on full display for the Fruit and Vegetable Field Day Aug. 5.

Japanese Beetles are Spotty . . . As Usual

Map of Iowa showing current distribution of reported Japanese beetles

The same two questions have been common this past week:

Yard and Garden: Bell Peppers


Bell peppers are the large, blocky, thick, sweet peppers belonging to the species Capsicum annuum. The three- to four-lobed fruit taper slightly at the bottom and depending on the cultivar are red, yellow, orange or other colors at maturity. They are a great source of vitamin C.