Articles

Elm Zigzag Sawfly

The elm zigzag sawfly is an invasive sawfly that attacks elm trees. Populations were detected in Wisconsin for the first time in July 2024 and were quickly found in several counties across the state. In many cases, damage may be minor, but this invasive pest does have the potential to cause significant defoliation of elm trees.

5 Steps to Plant a Tree

Interested in planting a tree on your property? Take a look at this tree planting article to learn best practices.

Fascinating Fasciation

This physiological disorder, called fasciation, can occur in almost any plant part, but is most noticeable in the stems or inflorescences.

Blister Canker

Blister canker (also known as nailhead canker) is a potentially lethal disease that primarily affects apple and crabapple trees. Symptoms of blister canker often appear as darkened, sunken areas that extend from cracks or wounds on tree branches and trunks.

Safely Using Produce from Flooded Gardens

After flooding occurs, gardeners often raise questions about the safety of consuming produce from gardens that were under water for a day or two.

Beyond Birdfeeders: How to be a Bird-friendly Gardener

Birds play countless roles in healthy ecosystems and in helping humans—which is why preserving bird diversity helps everyone. These roles include ecosystem services such as seed dispersal, pest control and pollination. In addition, birds are entertaining to watch, connect us to nature, and seeing and hearing birds can boost our moods!

Alternatives to Lawn: Groundcovers

Groundcover plants are low growing perennials that spread by trailing stems and cover an area of the ground. Groundcovers provide an excellent alternative for turfgrasses in shade and other tough areas in the landscape. Established groundcovers require relatively low maintenance, outcompete weeds, reduce soil erosion, provide habitat for pollinators, and enhance aesthetic beauty in the landscape.

Houseplant Care

Houseplants offer many benefits beyond beautifying a space. Not only can they improve the air quality in your home, they also can improve your mental well-being and reduce stress through basic care techniques.

Marigolds

Marigolds are highly regarded for their vibrant flowers, minimal maintenance requirements, and ease of cultivation. Found in gardens worldwide, these flowers are cherished valued for their visual allure, cultural significance, and application in integrated pest management.

Peony

Peonies are a perennial garden favorite, celebrated for their large, fragrant blooms and exceptional longevity. From the wide selection of growth forms and varieties, peonies offer lush foliage and eye-catching blossoms, making them a centerpiece in any garden setting.

Thyronectria Canker

Thyronectria canker is a common fungal disease of honeylocust, occurring wherever this tree is grown. Thyronectria canker is non-lethal and typically causes relatively minor damage to affected trees.

Iris Severe Mosaic

Iris severe mosaic (also called yellow latent disease or gray disease) is a potentially severe viral disease that can adversely affect both bulb and rhizome-forming irises, as well as crocuses.